Delta Air Lines has ended the sale of day passes for its Sky Club lounges to reduce overcrowding and improve the experience for members.
While other carriers have not adopted the same approach, lounge crowding has become a wider industry concern as lounge popularity and access options grow.
Delta’s policy change took effect on November 15, 2018. Sky Club access is now limited to Sky Club members, international premium-cabin passengers, SkyTeam elite members on certain international itineraries, and qualifying Delta or American Express cardholders. The airline no longer offers the previous $59 or 5,000-mile single-visit passes.
“Each day we’re continuing to invest in the Club to provide an elevated experience, and today access to the Club is in higher demand than ever,” Delta said in a statement. The carrier explained the change helps “ensure we can continue to provide an exceptional Club experience and take care of guests that choose to fly with us or with our partners.”
Travelers who already possess a valid single-visit pass may still use it before the pass expiration date, provided they are traveling on Delta or with an eligible partner airline.