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Delta and American Express Add Second Free Checked Bag to Most SkyMiles Amex Cards

Announced Thursday for the partners' 30th anniversary, the change aims to reduce travel friction by adding a rideshare credit, refreshed card designs, limited-time bonus offers, with no increase to annual fees.

Overview

  • On Thursday, June 4, 2026, Delta and American Express made the new benefits effective, giving eligible Basic Delta SkyMiles Gold, Platinum and Reserve consumer and business cardmembers a complimentary second checked bag on U.S. Delta‑operated flights.
  • Enrolled Delta SkyMiles Gold and Gold Business cardmembers will receive a $120 annual rideshare credit after card renewal, delivered as up to $10 in monthly statement credits for eligible U.S. rideshare purchases.
  • Most fee‑bearing Delta Amex cards now cover two checked bags per passenger on the same reservation, which can save travelers up to about $100 each way compared with Delta’s current first‑ and second‑bag fees.
  • The rollout includes refreshed card art — notably a new Slate Grey Reserve option — and limited‑time elevated welcome bonuses for applicants approved by July 15, 2026, with offers that require meeting specific spending thresholds.
  • The partners framed the updates as a practical, loyalty‑driven move to ease packing and airport friction for members, and the changes follow a company‑commissioned May survey showing many travelers want simpler baggage and transport solutions.