The Starwood Preferred Guest program and its affiliated American Express-issued credit card are justly celebrated for a generous transfer bonus: For every 20,000 points transferred into a participating airline program, the cardholder receives an extra 5,000 miles. So, for example, transferring 20,000 Starpoints into the American Airlines AAdvantage program nets 25,000 AAdvantage miles, a hefty 25 percent bonus.
While that sets a high standard for both value (the 25 percent bonus) and flexibility (transfers to more than 30 participating airline programs), a new limited-time offer from American Express trumps it, at least as far as value goes.
Offer Details
Through December 15, American Express cardholders who participate in Membership Rewards will earn a 50 percent bonus on all points transferred into Delta’s SkyMiles program.
In addition, anyone transferring 50,000 or more points will receive 25,000 elite-qualifying miles—enough to receive entry-level elite status in Delta’s program.
Registration is required.
Deal or No Deal
There are two minor negatives here.
First is American Express’ transfer fee of $0.60 for every 1,000 points. To transfer 25,000 points, for example, the fee is $15.00.
Second is the promotion’s short duration.
Compared to the potential value of the offer, however, the above are non-issues. If you’re a SkyMiles member and have Membership Rewards points, this is a terrific opportunity to get significantly more miles for your points, and to reach elite status without even flying.
Mind the deadline!
Reader Reality Check
Comments on this offer?
This article originally appeared on FrequentFlier.com.
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