Delta just added a major new perk to its Amex cards—and travelers are going to love it
American Express and Delta Air Lines are adding new perks to their cobranded credit cards just ahead of the busy summer travel season, including a benefit frequent Delta flyers have long wanted: a second free checked bag. The two companies announced Thursday that several Delta Sky Miles American Express cards will receive updated travel perks, refreshed card designs, and limited-time welcome bonuses for new applicants. Notably, the changes come without an increase to annual fees. The update also marks 30 years of partnership between Delta and American Express. A bigger push into travel perks The headline addition is a complimentary second checked bag on U.S. domestic Delta-operated flights for Delta SkyMiles Gold, Platinum, and Reserve consumer and business cardholders. Delta and Amex are positioning the update as a convenience play for travelers navigating increasingly crowded airports and packed summer schedules. [Photo: American Express and Delta] “After three decades of working together, we’ve learned that the future of travel benefits isn’t just more perks, it’s less friction,” Jon Gantman, executive VP of Cobrand Products & New Product Development at American Express, tells Fast Company. “Whether it’s getting to the airport, packing for a trip, or managing the logistics in between, we’re focused on creating benefits that fit naturally into how people travel today and make every step of the journey feel a little easier.” According to a new study commissioned by the companies, 63% of travelers say they spend more time deciding what to pack than planning the actual trip. Meanwhile, 64% of Gen Z travelers say they’ve left important items at home at least occasionally just to avoid checking a bag. The survey also found that 70% of travelers believe packing a suitcase together is “the ultimate relationship test.” New rideshare credits Delta SkyMiles Gold cardholders are also getting a new transportation perk. After renewing their c