To achieve Silver status on a major airline like Delta or United in 2026, you primarily need to reach a specific spending threshold through "Medallion Qualifying Dollars" (MQDs) or "Premier Qualifying Points" (PQPs). For Delta SkyMiles, Silver Medallion currently requires earning 5,000 MQDs within a single calendar year. You can accumulate these through the base fare of flights you take or through spend on a co-branded American Express card. United Airlines requires 4,000 PQPs plus 12 flight segments, or a straight 5,000 PQPs. Once you reach this tier, you receive "Elite" level benefits such as complimentary upgrades to extra-legroom seats at check-in, a free checked bag, and priority boarding. It is the first step on the loyalty ladder, designed to recognize travelers who fly semi-frequently. Many people also "shortcut" their way to Silver by using high-end travel credit cards that offer status boosts or by participating in "Status Challenges" where the airline grants you the tier temporarily if you can prove you have similar status on a rival carrier and fly a certain amount within 90 days.