In this article, Delta Air Lines will connect its SkyMiles loyalty program with Uber this spring, as announced by the companies on Tuesday. The airline is concluding its eight-year partnership with the smaller ride-hailing competitor, Lyft.
Upon linking customer accounts, Delta SkyMiles members will be able to earn rewards when using Uber services. For UberX airport rides, members will earn one mile per dollar spent, two miles for premium rides like Uber Comfort and Uber Black, and three miles per dollar on Uber Reserve trips. Additionally, members can earn one mile for every dollar spent on Uber Eats orders over $40 from restaurants and grocery stores.
Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi stated, “With a record number of travelers taking to the skies, we’re focused on helping to make your airport travel journey as efficient, affordable, and effortless as possible.”
Airlines like Delta have been expanding their partnerships to enhance frequent flyer programs, which have been lucrative for carriers. Delta’s partners include Starbucks, Hertz, and Ticketmaster.
Customers who have linked their Lyft accounts to Delta can continue to earn miles until April 7. Delta and Lyft will communicate directly with customers about the transition.
Delta did not provide a specific reason for switching ride-hailing partners. However, Delta’s credit card partner American Express offers some cardholders credits for Uber services.
Lyft expressed gratitude for the partnership with Delta and highlighted collaborations with other major brands like Alaska Airlines, Chase, DoorDash, Mastercard, Hilton, Disney, and Bilt.
Delta, which will report quarterly earnings soon, estimated significant revenue from the AmEx partnership. Lyft and Uber reported impressive user numbers and ride bookings in the third quarter.
Uber introduced a shuttle service to New York’s LaGuardia Airport last year. The new partnership between Delta and Uber was announced at the CES tech show in Las Vegas, where Delta also revealed plans for an AI-powered assistant in its app and upgrades to its in-flight entertainment systems.
