This policy changed effective yesterday. I just received a call from Lindsay Jackson at Delta who informed me that as of yesterday traveling companions of medallion members are eligible for free preferred seating even if they are not in the same PNR. She noted there were two additional requirements, that they be on the exact same itinerary and they be seated in the same cabin.

She said this change in policy was based on lots of feedback from other Diamond members including myself. This goes to show that policies can change if customers give Delta feedback.