Delta to change SkyMiles program to reward big spenders

ATLANTA - Delta Air Lines is reshaping its SkyMiles program to reward customers who spend more on tickets. <br> <br> Under the new guidelines announced Wednesday, the program will award ``elite&#39;&#39; status based on a combination of miles flown and fares purchased, instead of only on miles or legs flown. <br> <br> The modifications go into effect January 1 and do not affect customers&#39; status earned this year for the 2003 membership year. <br> <br> Delta SkyMiles members earn mileage by flying Delta, Delta connection carriers, Delta Express, Delta Shuttle and Delta&#39;s airline partners. The elite status comes with first-class upgrades, bonus miles and numerous timesaving perks.