It's fantastic that you're looking to maximize the value of your American Express Delta Companion Ticket! This is a truly valuable perk that can save you a significant amount on airfare, effectively giving you a "buy one, get one" deal on a Delta flight. But like all good things, it comes with a few nuances to navigate. Don't worry, we'll break it down step-by-step to ensure you get the most out of it.
Unlocking the Power of Your American Express Delta Companion Ticket: A Comprehensive Guide
Are you ready to turn that awesome Amex Delta Companion Ticket into a memorable journey for two? Excellent! This guide will walk you through the entire process, from finding your certificate to booking your dream trip. Let's get started!
Step 1: Confirming Your Eligibility and Locating Your Certificate
First things first, let's make sure you're good to go and know where to find that precious certificate.
Sub-heading: Do You Even Have One?
The American Express Delta Companion Ticket is a benefit primarily associated with two specific Delta SkyMiles American Express credit cards:
Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card: This card typically offers a Main Cabin companion certificate.
Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card: This premium card offers a companion certificate that can be used for Main Cabin, Delta Comfort+, or even First Class, depending on availability.
You usually receive this certificate annually after your card renewal and payment of the annual fee. It's a "use-it-or-lose-it" benefit, so make sure to keep an eye on its expiration date!
Sub-heading: Finding Your Companion Certificate
Once issued, your companion certificate is automatically deposited into your Delta SkyMiles account. There are a few easy ways to locate it:
Log in to Delta.com: This is the most common and straightforward method.
Go to delta.com and log in to your SkyMiles account.
Hover over your name in the upper right corner and select "Profile."
On the left-hand menu, click on "Certificates, eCredits & Vouchers." Your Companion Certificate should be listed here under "Use Certificates and eCredits."
Via the Delta App: If you prefer using the mobile app, your certificate should be in the "My Wallet" section.
Check Your Email: American Express and Delta typically send an email notification when your certificate is issued, often including the 8-digit certificate code. You can sometimes use this code directly on
delta.com/redeem
Pro Tip: Take note of the expiration date! You must both book and complete your travel by this date.
Step 2: Understanding the Rules and Restrictions
Before you get too excited about your destination, it's crucial to understand the fine print. The Delta Companion Certificate comes with specific terms and conditions that can impact your booking options.
Sub-heading: Key Limitations to Keep in Mind
Round-Trip Travel Only: Your certificate is valid for one round-trip ticket for your companion. One-way flights are not eligible.
Same Itinerary: Both you (the primary traveler) and your companion must be booked on the same itinerary, on the same flights, and at the same time. You cannot book your ticket and add a companion later.
Eligible Fare Classes: This is a big one! The certificate is only valid on certain fare classes.
For Delta SkyMiles Platinum Card holders, this typically means Main Cabin fares in classes like L, U, T, X, or V.
For Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card holders, you'll also have access to Delta Comfort+ (classes W, S - when L, U, T, X, or V are available in Main Cabin) and First Class (classes I, Z). Basic Economy fares are generally not eligible.
Availability in these specific fare classes can be limited, especially for popular routes or peak travel times. This is why flexibility is key!
Origin and Destination: Certificates usually allow for travel within the U.S. (including Alaska and Hawaii), Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America. Specific eligible destinations are often listed in your certificate's terms.
Delta-Operated Flights: Your flights must be operated by Delta or Delta Connection carriers. Code-share flights operated by other airlines are typically excluded.
Taxes and Fees: While the companion's base fare is covered, you will still be responsible for government-imposed taxes and fees for the companion's ticket. These can range from approximately $22 to $250, depending on the itinerary.
Payment Requirement: The purchase of the primary ticket (and the taxes/fees for the companion ticket) must be made with your eligible Delta SkyMiles American Express Card.
Non-Transferable (Once Issued): While the certificate itself can sometimes be used to book for someone else (as long as you, the cardholder, handle the booking), once the tickets are issued, they are generally non-transferable.
Sub-heading: Maximizing Value
To get the most out of your companion ticket, aim for routes where the second ticket's value is high. Think about more expensive domestic or international (within eligible regions) flights where you'd otherwise pay a premium.
Step 3: Searching for Eligible Flights
Now for the exciting part – finding flights! This is where patience and flexibility can truly pay off.
Sub-heading: Starting Your Search on Delta.com
Log in to your Delta SkyMiles account.
Navigate to "Certificates, eCredits & Vouchers" as described in Step 1.
Select the Companion Certificate you wish to use by checking the box next to it.
Click the "Continue" or "Redeem" button. This will take you to the flight search page, and crucially, it should automatically pre-select "2 Passengers."
Sub-heading: The Importance of Flexibility
Because companion certificates are limited to specific fare classes, being flexible with your travel dates and even your destination can significantly increase your chances of finding an eligible flight.
"My dates are flexible": When searching, always try checking the "My dates are flexible" option if you have it. This allows you to view a calendar of available dates and prices, making it easier to spot eligible fares.
Consider Mid-Week Travel: Weekends and peak travel periods often have higher demand, leading to fewer available seats in the restricted fare classes.
Book in Advance: The earlier you book, the better your chances of finding availability with the eligible fare classes.
Sub-heading: What to Look For (and Why It's Tricky)
When you search for flights, the system will automatically filter for flights that are eligible for your companion certificate. If a flight appears in your search results after selecting your certificate, it should be available.
If you're having trouble finding flights: It's usually because the specific fare classes (L, U, T, X, V for Platinum; I, Z, W, S for Reserve) are not available on your desired dates or routes. Delta doesn't always explicitly show you the fare class during the initial search, making it a bit of a guessing game without specialized tools.
Sub-heading: Advanced Search Tips (for the Savvy Traveler)
For those who want to dig deeper, some travelers use tools like ITA Matrix Airfare Search (a Google product) to identify flights with eligible fare classes before going to Delta.com.
In ITA Matrix, you can use "extension codes" to filter by fare class. For example:
For Main Cabin (Platinum Card):
f bc=L|bc=U|bc=T|bc=X|bc=Vin the "Extension Codes" field for both outbound and return.For First Class (Reserve Card):
f bc=I|bc=Zin the "Extension Codes."
Remember: Even if you find an eligible flight on ITA Matrix, you still need to book it through Delta.com with your certificate applied. ITA Matrix is a search tool, not a booking engine.
Step 4: Selecting Your Flights and Reviewing the Details
Once you find an itinerary that works, it's time to select it and review the details carefully.
Sub-heading: Picking Your Preferred Itinerary
Click on the flight options that fit your schedule and preferences.
Ensure the price displayed reflects the companion certificate being applied. You should see a significant discount or a clear indication that one fare is covered. The total amount due will include the primary fare plus taxes/fees for both passengers.
Sub-heading: Verifying the Cost Breakdown
Before confirming, always review the "Taxes, Fees & Charges" breakdown. This will show you exactly what you're paying for, confirming that the companion's base fare is indeed $0 and you're only covering their taxes and fees.
Step 5: Entering Passenger Information and Payment
You're almost there! This step is about finalizing the details for both travelers and making your payment.
Sub-heading: Providing Traveler Details
Enter the full names of both the primary traveler and the companion exactly as they appear on their government-issued IDs.
Ensure all other required information, such as birthdates and SkyMiles numbers (if applicable), is entered correctly.
Sub-heading: Completing the Payment
You must use your eligible Delta SkyMiles American Express Card to pay for the primary ticket and the applicable taxes and fees for the companion.
Can you use eCredits? Yes! Delta now allows you to apply Delta eCredits towards the paid portion of the primary ticket (and even the taxes/fees) when redeeming a companion certificate. Look for the option to apply eCredits at the checkout screen.
Step 6: Confirmation and Post-Booking
Congratulations, you've successfully used your American Express Delta Companion Ticket!
Sub-heading: Receiving Your Confirmation
After completing the purchase, you will receive a confirmation email from Delta. This email will include your confirmation code and details for both travelers.
The companion's e-ticket will typically show a base fare of $0, with only the taxes and fees listed.
Your companion certificate will now be marked as redeemed in your SkyMiles account.
Sub-heading: What Happens If You Need to Change or Cancel?
Changes: Subject to the fare rules of the primary ticket, changes may be possible but could incur a fare difference for the primary ticket. Both tickets on the reservation will be subject to the same changes.
Cancellations: If either the primary or companion ticket is canceled, both tickets will be canceled, and the companion ticket will not be reissued. The value of the primary ticket (less any fare difference) may be applied to future travel as an eCredit, subject to fare rules. Always review the cancellation policy before booking if your plans are uncertain.
Important Note: The benefit of complimentary upgrades for Medallion members extends to a companion on the same reservation, provided the companion is also a SkyMiles member. This is a fantastic added perk!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common questions about using your American Express Delta Companion Ticket, with quick answers:
How to find my American Express Delta Companion Ticket?
Log in to your Delta SkyMiles account on delta.com, go to "Profile," then "Certificates, eCredits & Vouchers." It will be listed under "Use Certificates and eCredits."
How to use a Delta Companion Certificate for international travel?
The Delta Companion Certificate can be used for international travel to specific destinations including Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America, originating from the U.S., Puerto Rico, or U.S. Virgin Islands. Always check your specific certificate's terms for eligible destinations.
How to maximize the value of my Delta Companion Ticket?
Aim to use it on the most expensive domestic or eligible international round-trip flights you plan to take, as the companion's base fare is covered regardless of the primary ticket's cost. Being flexible with dates and destinations also helps.
How to check for eligible fare classes with my Delta Companion Ticket?
When you initiate a search on delta.com after selecting your companion certificate, the system will only show you eligible flights. For advanced searching, you can use tools like ITA Matrix and input specific fare class codes (e.g., L, U, T, X, V for Main Cabin Platinum card).
How to book a Delta Companion Ticket if I'm not traveling?
While the certificate is issued to your SkyMiles account, you can typically use it to book for two other people as long as you (the cardholder) handle the booking and payment with your eligible Delta Amex card.
How to combine a Delta Companion Ticket with eCredits?
Yes, you can! After selecting your companion certificate to begin your flight search, proceed to the checkout screen. You will then see an option to apply any available Delta eCredits towards the cost of the primary ticket and/or the taxes and fees.
How to change a flight booked with a Delta Companion Ticket?
Changes are possible subject to the fare rules of the primary ticket, but both tickets on the reservation will be affected, and a fare difference might apply. Contact Delta customer service for assistance.
How to cancel a Delta Companion Ticket reservation?
If you cancel a reservation made with a companion certificate, both tickets will be canceled, and the companion certificate will generally not be reissued. The primary ticket's value may be returned as an eCredit, subject to its fare rules.
How to find if there are blackout dates for the Delta Companion Ticket?
Delta Companion Certificates typically do not have blackout dates, but they are subject to availability in specific, restricted fare classes, which can be limited during peak travel times.
How to upgrade a flight booked with a Delta Companion Ticket?
If you have the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Amex Card, your certificate may be eligible for First Class or Delta Comfort+ bookings. For Medallion members, complimentary upgrades for both you and your companion are possible based on your status, provided the companion is also a SkyMiles member and on the same reservation.
