Just wanted to give you some quick weekend updates about a number of tech issues that are plaguing the mothership this week. The first one I blogged about HERE last week is the fact that a number of us (me included) are not getting the points sent over from AMEX in regards to our Delta AMEX card spend. Delta PR folks did a “drive by” comment at FlyerTalk and said:
“We have identified a technical issue that has impacted miles updates to some Card Member balances. We are working to correct the situation. Thank you for bringing this to our attention.” – SKyMilesTeam on FlyerTalk
So they are going to try to fix it. No idea how long it will take or sorry that you may not be able to book some trip because you are waiting for SkyMiles to post. It sure seems like more of an AMEX than Delta issue to me but who knows as they are not giving us much to go on.
The next one is about yet another IT bug that is when you look at how many MQMs or MQSs a flight will earn it shows as ZERO (even those in 1st class). Also, if you look at the way left arrow in the screen shot above from Delta.com, the MQM “estimator” is also missing. I reached out to Delta CORP and was told:
“Regarding your question about MQMs and MQSs, there has been no change. It’s a glitch in the display we are working to resolve.” – Delta CORP spokesman
Personally I have come to distrust “glitches” like this one. I have publicly stated I see the day when MQMs will go away and I think this truly is what is on the way soon. I think this was no glitch but someone loading new code too soon. It is just a matter of time that ONLY how much you spend will matter for elite status with Delta. Then again, when all you have to look forward to is a C+ “side-grade” (maybe, if REV MGT does not lock down all the C+ space) then why even bother for status at all with Delta? Sad times.
Lastly one more tech issue (it is hard to keep count right). I have not reached out to Delta CORP on this one but have enough reader and other feedback to call this one just yet another Delta IT bug to ignore (for now). Clearly, per the wording on Delta.com, medallions CAN upgrade JFK to SEA even on the flights that have Delta ONE seats. I think this will change one day but for now this route is NOT excluded. This “not upgrade eligible ” bug is popping up all over the place on Delta.com so it is up to you to check if your route is one you can receive an upgrade on.
I have for years been very critical of Delta IT and when you look at the level of current and ongoing issues you can see why. This is completely unacceptable but what can we do when we have to trust things like the Delta award booking page that tells us “Delta’s expanded search capabilities and calendar at delta.com offer more flexible and accurate view of Award prices” since no award charts are to be found anymore. Sigh… – René
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With apologies to Hemingway…and none to Delta: “was there ever a loyal frequent flyer whose preferred airline was as truly their enemy as this one?”
They’ve also increased the prices on paid open jaws. Back in February I booked a paid open jaw (ATL to ORD, LGA to ATL) for a flight in March which cost $257.20. The other day I tried to book the same route but they were charging $720.20. If I booked one-way then the cost would be $88 and $156.10, respectively. I called Delta to find out what was going on and they said that they changed the way they price open jaws 🙁
@Shana – Yep I should have mentioned that one too but not a bug but an enhancement. This has been in the news and folks are really upset about it.
Excuse me for bringing this often discussed matter.
Regarding the ‘side-grade’ to C+ after May 16… I spoke with 2 Delta reps who both insist that Platinum and Diamond members will be able to select a C+ seat immediately after ticketing as long as their reservation does not include anyone who is not a Platinum or Diamond member. If I understand you correctly, you are stating that even Plat/Diam members will not be able to upgrade immediately; they will be upgrade eligible and notified shortly before their flight (and may get placed in a middle seat).
@Roamin’ Around – I am saying what Delta tells us. Yes there will be an “instant” upgrade IF there is space. Do you really think for one second Delta REV MGT will not start blocking a large block of those seats for FCM sales? Expect to see, very soon, much of the C+ seats empty and no upgrade for PM & DM for free. Just wait, you will see! 🙁
I just booked a flight on Delta yesterday for a summer trip and didn’t notice the issues with the MQM, MQS and MQD estimation one would earn for the flight. Checking again with some random itineraries and looks like the “display glitch” is fixed??