# How to Book Delta First Class Awards for Less Using SkyTeam Partners

_May 31 19:07_

Tags: Air France-KLM, Delta Air Lines, Virgin Atlantic, Delta SkyMiles, Flying Blue, Flying Club, loyalty program, policy change, airline, program change

Frequent flyers can book cheaper Delta First Class awards by finding partner availability via Air France/KLM or Virgin Atlantic, then upgrading the ticket using Delta SkyMiles through the Delta app

## Summary

The article outlines a strategy to reduce the cost of Delta First Class award tickets. Instead of booking directly with Delta SkyMiles, which are often expensive, travelers should search for award availability on Delta metal using SkyTeam partners like Air France/KLM Flying Blue or Virgin Atlantic Flying Club. Once a partner award is booked (either in economy or first), the traveler can use the Delta app to locate the trip and apply Delta SkyMiles to upgrade to Delta First Class. This method leverages potentially lower partner award rates combined with Delta's upgrade inventory, offering a cheaper alternative to direct Delta first-class awards. The article notes that upgrade availability in the app can be unpredictable and advises evaluating the value based on aircraft type and amenities

## Why it matters

Affects 4 airline programs (Air France-KLM, Air France/KLM, Delta Air Lines...). Card-issuer angle via American Express.

## Sources cited

- [Miles to Memories](https://milestomemories.com/delta-first-class) — Cheap(er) Delta First Class Awards!  Use Fewer Miles with this Easy Move

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