SkyTeam, one of the world’s major airline alliances, offers two elite status tiers that provide a range of benefits across its 19 member airlines. Let’s dive into what these status levels offer and how you can make the most of them. If you are new to SkyTeam Alliance, we suggest start here.
Understanding SkyTeam Status Levels
SkyTeam Elite Status
SkyTeam Elite serves as the alliance’s entry-level status tier. You typically earn this through achieving mid-tier status with any SkyTeam member airline’s frequent flyer program. For example, Delta Silver Medallion, Air France/KLM Flying Blue Silver, or Korean Air Morning Calm Club members automatically receive SkyTeam Elite status. This level focuses on providing essential travel conveniences like priority check-in and extra baggage allowance.
SkyTeam Elite Plus Status
Elite Plus represents the alliance’s premium tier, designed for frequent international travelers. You’ll typically receive this status when you achieve high-tier status with a member airline’s program – such as Delta Gold Medallion or higher, Air France/KLM Flying Blue Gold or higher, or Korean Air Morning Calm Premium Club or higher. The key distinguishing features include international lounge access and comprehensive SkyPriority services.
Best thing about an alliance Status is it is recognised with all the partner airlines in the alliance.
Status Benefit Comparison
| Benefit Category | SkyTeam Elite | SkyTeam Elite Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Check-in | Priority check-in at Elite counters | SkyPriority check-in |
| Baggage Allowance | +10kg or 1 extra piece | +20kg or 1 extra piece |
| Baggage Handling | Priority handling | SkyPriority handling |
| Priority Seat Selection | Yes (access to preferred seats, varies by airline) | Yes (priority access to preferred seats, varies by airline) |
| Waitlist Priority | Yes | Yes (higher priority) |
| Lounge Access | No | Yes (international flights) |
| Security/Immigration | No | SkyPriority lanes where available |
| Priority Boarding | Yes (varies by airline) | Yes - SkyPriority (dedicated lane at most airports) |
| Guaranteed Reservation | No | Yes (up to 24 hours before departure) |
| Companion Benefits | No | Yes (lounge access for one companion) |
How to Earn SkyTeam Status
There are two primary ways to earn SkyTeam Elite or Elite Plus status:
Regular Status Qualification
- Join any SkyTeam member airline’s frequent flyer program
- Earn status within that program through flights and qualifying activities
- Automatically receive corresponding SkyTeam status
- Mid-tier airline status typically earns SkyTeam Elite
- Top-tier airline status typically earns SkyTeam Elite Plus
Status Match Opportunities
Many SkyTeam airlines offer status match programs for elite members from other airlines:
- Quick path to SkyTeam status by matching existing airline status
- Status match duration varies by airline (usually 3-12 months)
- May require meeting flight requirements to maintain status
- Here are ongoing Status Match Opportunities
Making the Most of Your Status
To maximize your SkyTeam elite benefits:
- Always include your frequent flyer number in reservations
- Check individual airline policies as benefits may vary
- Use the SkyPriority finder in the SkyTeam app to locate priority services at airports
- Book directly with member airlines when possible
- Keep track of your tier points/miles with your primary airline
Why Alliance Status Matters
The key value of SkyTeam Elite and Elite Plus status lies in consistent recognition across all 19 member airlines, saving valuable time through priority services at every step of your journey. These benefits become particularly valuable – from extra baggage allowance saving costs to lounge access making connections more comfortable. Whether flying within India or internationally, alliance status ensures you’re recognized and rewarded across the entire network.