When you think about frequent flyer programs, you need to separate the two functions they serve. One part of the program is where you earn points by flying with the airline (or by having a co-brand credit card, transferring miles from a flexible currency partner, using a shopping or dining portal) which you can redeem for things like free flights (and other items like merchandise, upgrades and lounge memberships). Airlines have made earning points from flying more and more difficult while offering large bonuses for credit card sign-ups.
The other part of a frequent flyer program is the ability to earn status with your travels. The more you fly on an airline (or one of their alliance partners), the higher status you achieve. When you get status, you earn perks like free checked bags, upgrades, lounge access as well as a dedicated service line to speak with when you need assistance. The higher the level of status you have, the more points you’ll earn when you fly, tying the two parts of the program together.
While I feel that everyone should pay attention to the points earning side of frequent flyer programs, it just doesn’t make sense for most people to worry about getting status with an airline.
Continue reading “Airline Status Matters For Some People But Most Of Us Should Just Ignore It”
