Delta Air Lines is following United’s lead and reducing the free checked bag allowance for its lowest level elite members. Silver Medallions are now allowed to check only one bag for free on Delta and Delta Connection flights in coach class for tickets purchased on or after Dec. 15, 2011 for travel on or after March 1, 2012. There are exceptions to the new rule and Silver Medallions with a Reserve, Platinum or Gold Delta SkyMiles American Express credit card can continue to check a second bag for free. The new policy also applies to SkyTeam Elite and Alaska MVP members who receive free checked bags on Delta flights. The new checked bag policy affects flights within and between the U.S., Canada, Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.

Bottom line: For now, entry-level elite members of American AAdvantage still receive two free checked bags on domestic flights. While Delta Air Lines offers a concession to its Silver Medallions who also carry their co-branded credit card, this change is a devaluation of benefits for Silver members, who are already last in line for upgrades.