Delta Air Lines is changing lanes — literally!

Delta Air Lines has announced a game-changing partnership with Uber, giving SkyMiles members more ways to earn miles through everyday activities. This collaboration was unveiled during a high-profile keynote event at the Las Vegas Sphere on January 7, 2025, with Delta CEO Ed Bastian and Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi taking the stage together. Starting later this year, this partnership will allow members to earn SkyMiles on Uber rides and Uber Eats orders, marking the end of the existing Delta relationship with Lyft.

Here is everything you need to know about the new partnership, what it means for SkyMiles members, and how you can maximize your rewards.

What Is New With Delta And Uber

Credit. The Points Guy. Delta And Uber Announce Partnership At CES In Las Vegas.

The Delta-Uber partnership focuses on making airport and premium rides more rewarding for SkyMiles members, with additional opportunities to earn miles through Uber Eats. With roughly 15% of global Uber rides starting or ending at airports, this partnership caters to a core need of travelers.

Here is how SkyMiles earnings will break down for linked accounts:

• 1 mile per dollar on UberX rides to and from airports.
• 2 miles per dollar on premium rides, including Uber Black, Uber XL, and Uber Comfort.
• 3 miles per dollar on pre-scheduled rides booked via Uber Reserve.
• 1 mile per dollar on eligible Uber Eats orders (restaurant and grocery) over $40.

Earning Miles Beyond The Airport

Unlike the previous Delta deal with Lyft, the Uber partnership offers SkyMiles on premium rides — even when they are not airport-related. However, standard UberX rides will only earn SkyMiles if they are part of an airport trip. This approach emphasizes the commitment from Delta to integrating its loyalty program into the travel journeys of customers.

Related: The Best Credit Cards For Delta Airlines SkyMiles

Improved Airport Experience For Travelers

In addition to earning miles, Delta and Uber are working together to enhance the airport experience. Uber plans to roll out step-by-step instructions within its app to guide customers from their plane to the ride share pickup area — a common pain point for many travelers. Dara Khosrowshahi explained during the keynote that the goal of Uber is to improve both pickup and drop-off processes at Delta hubs, making airport commutes smoother and more convenient. This added focus on customer experience sets the partnership apart.

Goodbye, Lyft: What You Need To Know

Credit. Lyft. Delta To End Lyft Partnership In 2025.

As Delta embraces Uber, it is also bidding farewell to Lyft. The Delta-Lyft partnership, which began in 2017, allowed SkyMiles members to earn miles on Lyft rides, particularly those to and from airports. However, this partnership will officially end on April 7, 2025. Delta has expressed gratitude for its collaboration with Lyft, which collectively helped customers earn billions of miles.

For those with linked Lyft accounts, SkyMiles earnings will continue until the partnership ends. Delta promises to share additional details with affected customers in the coming weeks.

How To Maximize Your SkyMiles Earning Potential

Credit. Delta. How To Maximize Delta SkyMiles With Uber.

The Delta-Uber partnership opens up new opportunities to accumulate miles, but taking full advantage requires a bit of strategy. Here are some tips to maximize your rewards:

• Link Your SkyMiles And Uber Accounts: Once the program launches, link your Delta and Uber accounts immediately. You can join the waitlist today at uber.com/delta to ensure you are ready to earn as soon as the feature becomes available.
• Opt For Premium Rides: Whenever possible, book premium options like Uber Black or Uber Reserve to earn 2-3 miles per dollar spent. This is especially beneficial for business travelers or those seeking a more comfortable ride.
• Make Strategic Uber Eats Orders: To maximize earnings, use Uber Eats for restaurant or grocery orders over $40. For families or large groups, these miles can add up quickly.
• Combine With Amex Benefits: If you hold an The Platinum Card® from American Express or American Express® Gold Card, you are already eligible for monthly Uber Cash credits ($15 for Amex Platinum, $10 for Amex Gold). Use these credits for airport rides or Uber Eats orders to double-dip on rewards.

Related: The Best Credit Cards For American Express Membership Rewards

How This Compares To Other Partnerships

The new Delta partnership with Uber positions SkyMiles as a leading travel rewards program, offering everyday earning opportunities unmatched by many competitors. While the Marriott Bonvoy collaboration with Uber provides points for certain Uber Eats orders, it does not reward travelers for standard Uber rides. The Delta program stands out by covering airport rides, premium rides, and Uber Eats orders, making it a more comprehensive option for travelers.

Final Thoughts

The Delta-Uber partnership marks a significant evolution in travel loyalty programs, offering members more ways to earn miles through everyday activities. Whether you are commuting to the airport, booking a premium ride, or ordering dinner through Uber Eats, every dollar spent can bring you closer to your next travel adventure.

Although some may lament the end of the Delta partnership with Lyft, the new collaboration with Uber offers broader earning opportunities and an improved airport experience. With the potential to combine these rewards with Amex benefits, savvy travelers have plenty of reasons to celebrate.