#3 Apr 28, 25

Premium Economy: Steal or Scam?

Is premium economy worth it, or is it just another way for airlines to charge you more for economy? In today’s episode of Upgraded Points, Chris and Katie discuss premium economy, the new Delta Sky Club lounge in Atlanta, and answer listener questions to help you get the most out of your points and miles.

Chris and Katie begin by discussing their experiences and opinions on premium economy. Originally hesitant about premium economy, Chris and Katie say the product is popular for a reason. Next, they discuss the new Delta Sky Club in Atlanta. They give listeners different ways to get into a Delta Sky Club as well as alternatives to the Delta Sky Club in Atlanta. Finally, Chris and Katie answer listener questions on booking for someone else with points and the difference between flexible and fixed points.

Email us at podcast@upgradedpoints.com

For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below:

[0:00] Introduction

[1:10] Chris recently flew from Miami to Rio on American Airlines Premium Economy. Premium economy was slightly more expensive, but was a much better product than economy.

[3:27] Katie notes that sometimes premium economy is ideal if you need to book seats for a larger number of people.

[8:01] Katie was just in Atlanta for the new Delta Sky Club opening. This is the first new Atlanta Sky Club opening in nine years, and it is the largest lounge there by volume.

[11:46] At the back of the lounge, there is a large buffet on both sides with a beautiful vine design behind it. The lounge was designed this was specifically to help with the flow of traffic.

[14:00] How can you access the Delta Sky Club? The easiest way is with an American Express Platinum Card, which will get you ten visits. If you need more visits, you can get the Delta Sky Miles Reserve Card for fifteen visits.

[15:43] Additionally, if you are flying Delta One or flying internationally as a diamond, platinum, or gold member flying in Delta One or Premium Select, you can get access.

[20:00] Other lounges in the Atlanta airport include the Centurion Lounge as well as some basic Priority Pass lounges.

[22:45] Can you use points to book travel for someone else? For flights, it’s very easy; you can just use the name of the person who will be flying. For hotels, it’s a little more complicated. You can try adding them as a guest, but some hotels may not let your guest check in without you. For Marriott, you have to call.

[26:13] What is the difference between transferable points and fixed miles points? A flexible point is a point you earn with a bank directly. Flexible points can be transferred wherever you want to use them. On the other hand, fixed points apply only to the airline or hotel chain with which you earn them.

Learn more about how to get into the Delta Sky Club.

Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website.