Delta expects to complete the integration of WorldPerks into SkyMiles this month. By the end of October, all WorldPerks mileage balances, elite qualifying miles and elite qualifying segments will be transferred into linked SkyMiles accounts and SkyMiles elite status for 2010 will be determined by the combined balances. If your Medallion status changes as a result of combining miles or segments, you will instantly be upgraded to the higher Medallion status. The mileage transfer will be considered eligible activity and extend the mileage expiration date for another 24 months. WorldPerks members who do not have a SkyMiles account will be given a new SkyMiles member number and members will receive an email from SkyMiles when their WorldPerks account has been merged into their SkyMiles account.

Citing “significant challenges in integrating two programs on different and complex technology platforms,” SkyMiles is making a few changes. Complimentary upgrades on award tickets for Medallion members will be unavailable until spring 2010. The PerkChoice program that allows members to combine miles and cash for an award ticket will be discontinued and may not return. A Delta spokesperson told us that “once the total integration of Delta and Northwest is complete, Delta will revisit the PerkChoice program.” Unlimited complimentary upgrades for elite companions will be eligible to clear 12 hours before departure and complimentary elite upgrades with Alaska Airlines will be temporarily discontinued until 2010.

Bottom line: We appreciate Delta’s efforts in keeping members informed of upcoming changes to the program as a result of the SkyMiles and WorldPerks integration. Some of these are only temporary as SkyMiles works out the technology issues of combining two programs into one. On the plus side, Delta will count the merging of accounts as activity and you won’t have to worry about expiring miles for at least two years. And some members may end up with a higher Medallion status on the spot after accounts are merged.