Delta Air Lines has recently entered a multi-year partnership with Uber, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s efforts to enhance its loyalty program. The collaboration allows Delta SkyMiles members to earn miles while using Uber’s services, such as rides and Uber Eats.
This partnership, announced during Delta CEO Ed Bastian’s keynote at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, will officially launch in spring 2024. While the exact launch date is not yet disclosed, it promises to offer exciting opportunities for travelers and Uber users alike.
This collaboration comes on the heels of Delta’s decision to end its eight-year partnership with Lyft, which will officially conclude on April 7, 2024. Customers who have linked their Lyft accounts to Delta SkyMiles will be notified about the transition, ensuring a smooth switch. Customers can continue earning miles through Lyft until the partnership ends, giving them some time to adjust to the new Delta-Uber alliance.
Once SkyMiles members link their accounts to Uber, they can begin earning miles on various Uber services. The rewards structure is as follows:
UberX Airport Rides: One SkyMile for every dollar spent.
Uber Comfort and Uber Black Rides: Two SkyMiles per dollar spent.
Uber Reserve Trips: Three SkyMiles per dollar spent.
Uber Eats Orders: One SkyMile per dollar spent for orders over $40 from restaurants or grocery stores.
This means that whether travelers are heading to the airport, ordering food, or enjoying a ride in a more premium Uber service, they will earn miles that can be redeemed for a variety of rewards.
In addition to earning miles, the partnership offers SkyMiles members the opportunity to redeem their miles for several valuable rewards. These include Delta flight upgrades, hotel bookings, and purchases with Delta’s partner brands. This provides added value for SkyMiles members who frequently travel and wish to maximize their rewards.
Uber customers will also benefit from enhanced pickup and drop-off services at Delta hubs, which is likely to improve the overall experience for travelers, particularly those using Uber for airport transportation.
The decision to end Delta’s eight-year collaboration with Lyft comes after an extensive period of partnership. From April 7, 2024, customers who had linked their Lyft accounts to earn SkyMiles will transition to using Uber to accrue miles. The end of the Lyft partnership also signifies a shift towards Uber’s broader range of services and its integrated benefits with Delta SkyMiles.
Delta’s partnership with Uber is part of a broader strategy to expand its SkyMiles loyalty program. In addition to Uber, Delta has partnered with other well-known brands such as Starbucks, Hertz, and Ticketmaster to offer a variety of earning and redemption options. This diversification helps Delta continue to grow its loyalty program, which is expected to generate approximately $7 billion in 2024 revenue, primarily through its American Express partnership.
Delta’s move to increase the value of its loyalty program reflects the growing importance of customer loyalty in the airline industry. By aligning with Uber and other key brands, Delta is working to offer more flexibility and options to its SkyMiles members.
Conclusion: A Win-Win for Delta and Uber Customers
The partnership between Delta and Uber creates a win-win situation for both parties. For Delta, the collaboration expands its loyalty program and strengthens its customer base. For Uber, it offers an attractive way for users to earn rewards, especially those who frequently travel for business or leisure. Together, they provide a comprehensive solution for frequent flyers and commuters, enhancing the overall customer experience and offering seamless travel solutions.