Emirates, Delta to link loyalty programmes

Delta Air Lines, the world's second largest carrier in terms of passengers carried, and Emirates, have teamed up to offer their frequent flyers more opportunities to earn and redeem miles.

The two carriers are integrating their award-winning loyalty programmes, Delta's SkyMiles and Emirates' Skywards, in a customer-centric move allowing frequent travellers increased flexibility and more benefits.

Starting June 1, SkyMiles members can earn and redeem miles on Emirates-operated flights throughout the world. Members of Emirates' customer loyalty programme, Skywards, will also be able to earn and redeem miles on Delta flights worldwide.

"To mark the relationship we are offering double miles for all applicable accrual classes for travel on Emirates between June 1 and August 31" said Rob Borden, General Manager, SkyMiles, Delta Customer Loyalty Programmes.

"This partnership increases mileage-earning and redemption opportunities between Dubai and international destinations such as Amman, Bahrain; Bangkok, Cairo, and Sydney."

SkyMiles members flying on qualifying Emirates fares will earn a minimum of 500 miles or the actual miles flown, whichever is greater. Members will earn a 150 per cent mileage bonus for First Class travel, a 125 per cent bonus for Business Class travel and 100 per cent of the miles for Economy Class travel. Sky-wards' members can also earn and redeem miles on Delta flights worldwide.

Delta Air Lines offers 5,581 flights each day to 410 destinations in 72 countries.