Depending on the SkyMiles, travelers used to get invited to the annual Delta 360 program. This was for the most loyal travelers when they spent on flights. It’s an elite membership for the passengers who get to board early. Being in the elite membership, people could get rewards and even flight upgrades. However, Delta Air Lines just announced an update to the elite club.
In a few days, all the privileges of elite members will be stripped away. Last year, in May, passengers were given pre-boarding status if they were part of the 360 program. Now, the airline has announced that these members will no longer be allowed to board early.
https://youtu.be/YU_05lktplI?si=yaRE6w4YctOx9wfL
If these passengers needed extra time to board, they were allowed to do so with more assistance. Looks like it only lasted a year! From May 16, 2025, the airline will make the elite members board from Zone 2 with the Diamond Medallion members.
The passengers will only get to board first if they are flying first class. In other cases, they will have to wait until the first class travelers have already boarded in their section. There was no specific reason for this change, and people are just left to speculate.
Despite not knowing the reason, the passengers will have to comply with the authorities. Moreover, the airline is keeping the pre-boarding only for those on active military duty or those who need assistance to board.
One of the spokespersons said, “At Delta, we regularly refine our boarding processes to ensure a more seamless and efficient experience for all customers.”
News: @Delta is updating its boarding process on 5/1
The airline will debut new group numbers for boarding, replacing the existing “branded” experience.
Delta says this will make it easier for infrequent travelers and those with a language barrier. Let’s see how it works IRL. pic.twitter.com/PX4uLdKq0z
— Zach Griff (@_ZachGriff) April 9, 2024
This update also comes with a change in TSA rules for carry-on and checked luggage. The items with lithium batteries are impacted the most. So you’ll have to know how to carry power banks, battery charging cases, portable chargers and laptop batteries.
Power banks are limited to two per person, so get the best ones to fulfil your needs. Moreover, don’t carry liquids over the limit set, or they will be confiscated. Things like hummus and peanut butter are also under the radar unless they are spread on a sandwich and not in a jar. You may visit the official website for the whole list and rules. Besides, Delta 360 members flying soon should get updates from the airline website to avoid any confusion.
https://t.co/fYvlueGGLN
Delta Air Lines Makes Key Change To Elite Loyalty Program By Ending Pre-Boarding For Delta 360 Members In May 2025— Anima Dhar (@AnimaDhar58291) May 12, 2025
It is a hard time for the frequent flyers amidst so many changes, while REAL ID is also made mandatory. Since May 7, everyone boarding has to bring a REAL ID to pass the security check. Those who don’t have the ID are asked to bring alternatives and comply with the check. Even domestic flyers will have to show ID, and the only exception is those under 18.
Initially, some travelers revealed the issues they were facing. In one case, someone was denied a state ID and had to show a passport. So, if you don’t have a REAL ID, bring your passport for a smooth boarding process.
