Hyatt and Delta Launch New Loyalty Partnership

Hyatt Hotels Corporation and Delta Air Lines have announced a new, long-term strategic loyalty collaboration. The partnership will connect the World of Hyatt and Delta SkyMiles programs for elite members when it launches in the coming months.

According to a joint announcement, the collaboration aims to create a connected and rewarding experience across the travel journey. Initial benefits will focus on elite members of both programs, with specific eligibility and launch timing details to be shared soon.

Dual-Earning on Flights and Stays

A core feature of the new partnership will be reciprocal earning. Eligible World of Hyatt elite members will have the opportunity to earn Hyatt points on qualifying Delta airfare purchases within specific fare classes. Conversely, Delta SkyMiles Medallion members will be eligible to earn miles for qualifying stays at participating Hyatt hotels.

Hyatt's CEO, Mark Hoplamazian, stated the partnership is about creating memorable experiences throughout the full travel journey. "By bringing together two brands with a shared commitment to care and exceptional hospitality, we will make it easier for our members to enjoy a connected and rewarding experience, from takeoff to check out," he said.

Phasing Out the American Airlines Partnership

The new Delta alliance directly replaces Hyatt's previous enhanced relationship with American Airlines' AAdvantage program. American Airlines confirmed the change in an email to its members, stating the two companies mutually decided not to continue their enhanced relationship.

American Airlines outlined a transition plan for current linked accounts. Members have until November 15, 2026, to link their AAdvantage and World of Hyatt accounts. They can earn World of Hyatt rewards through the AAdvantage program until February 28, 2027, and select them as Loyalty Point Rewards until March 31, 2027. Members will retain any World of Hyatt status benefits they selected for the 2026-2027 program year through February 29, 2028.

The source report from LoyaltyLobby suggests that certain Hyatt Milestone Rewards tied to American Airlines, such as Main Cabin Extra seats and Platinum status, will likely disappear. It is expected these may be swapped for Delta SkyMiles equivalents, though this has not been confirmed.

Future Benefits and Timeline

The full scope of the Hyatt-Delta partnership, including exclusive benefits and experiences, will be unveiled later this year. The collaboration is described as long-term and strategic, with both companies expressing a shared vision for premium travel loyalty.

The report concludes that while the end of the American Airlines partnership may disappoint some travelers, the new Delta alliance promises to offer connected benefits for members of both loyalty programs. Final details on the partnership's benefits and launch date are anticipated before the end of the year.