In last month’s Opening Remarks, we mentioned an upcoming premier credit card from American Express and Delta that offers up to 30,000 EQMs and complimentary access to Crown Room Clubs. The Delta Reserve credit card and the Delta Reserve for Business credit card are now available to U.S.-based customers and small businesses. Cardmembers spending $30,000 in a calendar year will earn 15,000 MQMs and 15,000 bonus miles, and if you spend another $30,000, you’ll receive an additional 15,000 MQMs and 15,000 bonus miles. If you travel a lot and don’t need the MQMs you earn with the card, you can give your friends or family a boost to elite status by transferring some of your MQMs into their accounts.

Cardmembers will receive complimentary access to Delta’s Crown Room Clubs along with two guests when flying on Delta; access to Breezeway priority boarding and priority security; use of American Express’ personal concierge service; an annual companion pass and access to Delta’s Pay with Miles benefit. Cardmembers will also earn double miles on Delta purchases and when using the card at gas stations, supermarkets, drugstores and other select retailers. The Delta Reserve for Business Credit Card has essentially the same benefits, with the added benefit of earning double miles for business-related purchases such as office supplies and wireless phone bills. The Business Card also offers an online tracking system to help you keep track of business expenses and you can set spending limits on additional cards for employees.

Delta’s Silver Medallion elite level is reached at 25,000 miles so it’s possible to join the ranks of the elite solely with credit card spending, but the card comes at a cost. The annual fee is $450, which is reduced to $395 for cardmembers who already carry an American Express card with an annual fee of at least $55.