Delta Air Lines and American Express have added new travel benefits to eligible Delta SkyMiles cards, including a complimentary second checked bag on domestic flights and a new rideshare credit for some Gold card members.
The changes were announced on June 4, 2026, as Delta Air Lines and American Express marked 30 years of their card partnership. The companies said the update adds more value to Delta AmEx cards without increasing annual fees.
Eligible basic Delta SkyMiles Gold, Delta SkyMiles Platinum and Delta SkyMiles Reserve consumer and business card members now receive a complimentary second checked bag on domestic Delta-operated flights. The benefit is in addition to the existing first checked bag benefit.
The new second checked bag benefit could be especially relevant for families and leisure travellers, as US airline baggage fees have become a bigger part of the total cost of domestic travel. Delta recently increased checked bag fees on many domestic and short-haul international routes.
Enrolled Delta SkyMiles Gold and Gold Business card members will also receive a $120 annual rideshare credit after card renewal. The benefit provides up to $10 in monthly statement credits on eligible US rideshare purchases with select providers.
Dwight James, Senior Vice President for Customer Engagement and Loyalty at Delta and CEO of Delta Vacations, said the partnership with American Express had grown because it focused on “premium experiences and real, everyday benefits”.
“Together, we’ll keep evolving the Card experience in ways that make travel feel simpler and deliver real value to our Members in the moments that matter,” said Dwight James.
Jon Gantman, Executive Vice President for Cobrand Products and New Product Development at American Express, said the new benefits were designed to support customers across the full travel journey.
“From getting to the airport to stepping on the plane, we’ve worked together to add meaningful benefits like rideshare credits and a second checked bag, so our shared Card Members get more value along the way, without increasing annual fees,” said Jon Gantman.
The update also expands how card members can use companion certificates. Eligible certificates can now be redeemed toward the eligible flight portion of a Delta Vacations package.
Delta SkyMiles Platinum card members receive a companion certificate each year after card renewal for a Delta Main domestic, Caribbean or Central American round-trip flight. Delta SkyMiles Reserve card members receive a companion certificate valid for Delta First, Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort or Delta Main round-trip flights across the same regions.
Government-imposed taxes and fees still apply to companion certificates, and Delta Basic experiences are not eligible. Other baggage charges and restrictions may also apply.
The companies also introduced refreshed card designs across the Delta SkyMiles portfolio, including new slate grey designs for Reserve and Reserve Business cards.
New applicants can access limited-time welcome offers if they apply and are approved by July 15, 2026. Offers vary by card and include bonus miles for new Gold, Platinum, Reserve and business card members after meeting spending requirements.
The latest Delta SkyMiles card perks strengthen the airline’s loyalty offer at a time when major US carriers are competing for frequent flyers, card spending and premium travel customers.
