Delta frequent flyer miles
 

I've built up some miles and decided to use them for the first time. It's like trying to understand the US tax code. After all my work I think I figured out that the coach fares you need to purchase to upgrade to business are about the same as just buying business class on a much better airline like Swiss. Do I book first then get a reward certificate later to find out I can't use it on my expensive flight (as happened once before)? Best maybe to donate the miles and stick with Swiss.

I always believe that if one's so disgusted or frustrated with a particular FF program, then just forget about the miles. Donate it, get magazines, or do nothing.

Really not worth the trouble.

I agree. I wasn't familiar enough with trying to redeem miles until now. I have another card with reward miles. I hope getting vouchers for Red Lobster will be easier.

I'll accept your donation ;)

BTW, how many miles do you have?

And I don't see the chart THAT complicated:

http://www.delta.com/skymiles/use_mi...ards/index.jsp

You do need to call Skymiles to find out if a fare is eligible. And on any airline, I'd only buy a higher fare <b>if and only if</b> I can get a confirmed upgrade at the time of the booking. I would not play the game of buying up and hope the upgrade clears.

I agree. Call them on the phone.