The Gold Delta SkyMiles Credit Card from American Express adds a highly requested perk this month: priority boarding on all Delta flights. Delta and American Express officials announced the addition along with other updated benefits for their Platinum and Gold airline credit card beginning September 1, 2011. Once the new benefit rolls out to Delta's entire fleet, gate crews will welcome cardholders and their travel companions onto aircraft along with frequent flyers and passengers requiring special assistance.


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The new perk may sound like a small dose of luxury, but travel experts like airline industry consultant John Pincavage say that priority boarding really offers access to the most coveted resource in the skies: access to an aircraft's overhead bins. In an interview with the Chicago Tribune, Pincavage said that checked baggage fees have already changed the way Americans pack for flights. Latecomers and travelers sorted into higher numbered groups often have to leave larger carryon items at the gate when overhead bins fill up.

However, under a previously announced benefit program, Delta SkyMiles Credit Card members already enjoy their first checked bags for free on Delta flights. The popular reward actually inspired the card's product managers to brainstorm new in-flight perks, according to American Express spokesperson Gunther Bright. Cardmembers can extend that benefit to as many as eight companions on the same reservation, saving up to $400 in baggage fees on a round trip.

Delta SkyMiles credit cards will also treat cardholders to a 20 percent discount on all in-flight amenities, beginning in September. With upgraded entertainment options on many of its planes, Delta's discounts will soon apply to purchased movies, television shows and video games. Cardholders can also use their special pricing for food and beverages on longer flights. New cardholders pay no annual fee during their first year with the Gold Delta SkyMiles Credit Card, and can qualify for up to 25,000 bonus miles by making a purchase and adding two additional authorized users to an account.