✈️ The New Ultra-Premium Amex Delta Card: Is a $1,000+ Annual Fee Coming?

If you thought the Delta Reserve was the top-tier flex in the Delta American Express lineup, hold onto your SkyMiles… because Delta and Amex are working on something even bigger.

According to a recent leak (thanks @JordanOnBrand and Gary Leff), Delta and American Express are developing a brand-new ultra-premium credit card that will sit above the Delta Reserve. And yes—there are whispers this one may come with a four-figure annual fee.

Let’s break it all down.

🔥 Why Now?

Delta and Amex have a monster partnership—bringing in over $7 billion per year—but it’s reportedly underperforming compared to internal projections.

They’ve already mined most of their customer base with the existing lineup of Delta SkyMiles credit cards. The new strategy? Go deeper with fewer, wealthier customers by offering a “no holds barred” product for their most elite flyers.

🥂 What Might This Card Include?

Nothing is confirmed yet, but based on recent moves by Amex and Delta, here’s what we think might show up on this ultra-premium card:

• Unlimited Sky Club access — Reserve cardholders are losing this perk unless they spend $75K. This card may bring it back without a catch.

• Free In-Flight Wi-Fi — Delta’s been rolling this out system-wide; this card could guarantee top-tier connectivity.

• Bonus perks that mimic elite status — Think priority check-in, preferred seats, early boarding, and more.

• Statement credits galore — Uber, Starbucks, Clear, or even high-end retailers (à la Amex Platinum-style stacking).

• A luxury concierge experience — Possibly AI-powered or exclusive for flight perks, premium seat bookings, or partner redemptions.

💰 But What About the Annual Fee?

This is where things get spicy. While the Delta Reserve already carries a $650 annual fee, sources suggest the new card could push past $1,000.

We’re now in Amex Centurion / Chase Sapphire Reserve / high-roller territory.

And here's the thing—there’s a market for this.

Just look at Chase’s plans to bump Sapphire Reserve to $795 and Amex’s constant tweaking of the Platinum card. Travelers who value convenience, upgrades, and a luxe experience are showing they're willing to pay more—if it actually delivers.

💭 Final Thoughts from Ben

If you’re a frequent Delta flyer who’s been frustrated by lounge restrictions, lower upgrade chances, and perk rollbacks… this new card might be Delta’s way of saying:

“You can still get the red carpet—but only if you’re really in the club.”

It’s a strategic move to create a lounge within the lounge. And while the price may be steep, the value could be equally sky-high for the right kind of traveler.

I’ll be watching this one closely—and if you want first dibs on how to use it to stack elite perks and SkyMiles to the moon, you’ll hear it from me first.