I have other cards that do various cash back so the Delta perks add up for me.

Basically I am paying fees only on almost all flights (except when I use companion tickets!) with either direct use of points or Pay with Miles (to get MQMs).

Actually on a flight next week that the Pay w Miles cost is 65K miles and the Miles cost was 113K so every once in a while that actually saves me miles!

SC use and upgrades make the card use on all four worth what I give up on other cards. After next year we will ramp up our flying on longer haul trips too.

Last year had a total of 16 flights between our family and I think I paid about $500 cash??? Upgraded at least 50% of time. Now PM so C+ every flight - hopefully get F more. Will upgrade w miles for F also.

It has been a fun game as well to manage 4 cards to get them all maxed out for MQMs since two are personal and don't usually run that much personal card use - have been creative and found places that I never would have expected to take AmEx without a card fee - ie - our church for tithing!

FH