# Delta SkyMiles Changes Starbucks Earning Conditions, Requires Active Flight Status

_Jul 28 10:16_

Tags: Delta Air Lines, Delta SkyMiles, Starbucks Rewards, loyalty program, policy change, airline, partnership, program change

Effective August 5, 2026, Delta SkyMiles members must take a qualifying Delta flight to earn miles on Starbucks purchases. Non-active flyers receive a 2-month grace period until October 5, 2026

## Summary

Delta Air Lines is updating the terms and conditions for its partnership with Starbucks Rewards. Starting August 5, 2026, SkyMiles members will earn 1 mile per $1 spent at Starbucks cafés only when they are an active Delta passenger (having taken a qualifying flight). Previously, members could earn miles simply by linking accounts and reloading their Starbucks Card. To mitigate the impact on lapsed flyers, Delta is offering a two-month promotional period for those who haven't flown recently, allowing them to continue earning under the amended conditions until October 5, 2026

## Why it matters

Affects Delta Air Lines loyalty members and route planners.

## Sources cited

- [LoyaltyLobby](https://loyaltylobby.com/2026/07/28/delta-skymiles-starbucks-announce-rewards-partnership-points-earning-changes?omhide=true) — Delta SkyMiles & Starbucks Announce Rewards Partnership Points Earning Changes

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