Elite status: The ultimate frequent flier perk
— -- Pssst ... wanna know a real "road warrior" secret? Here it is:
When it comes to frequent flier programs, it's not about the miles; it's about attaining elite status.
Those shiny silver, gold and platinum-colored cards—and the special rewards and recognition that come with them—are carrots for those in the know, an incentive for would-be elites to increase their loyalty to a single airline, and a compelling reason for existing elites to maintain their past loyalty.
Are you shaking your head, wondering "What's this elite thing?" Think of it as VIP status for the most active members of an airline's frequent flier program. Most programs have three elite tiers—often designated as Silver, Gold and Platinum, or the like—requiring progressively higher numbers of miles to qualify, and conferring progressively more and better benefits as the higher levels are achieved.
Here's what you need to know about elite status, and what you have to do to achieve it.
What it means to be gold
Before discussing the specifics of earning elite status, here's an overview of the benefits that elite members enjoy.
Bonus miles
Elite members earn mileage bonuses for flights on the host airline (the airline in whose frequent flier program the member has elite status) and selected partner airlines (typically airlines participating in the same global alliance).
The bonus amount depends on the elite tier, with higher tiers receiving a larger bonus. In American's AAdvantage program, for example, Gold members earn a 25% elite bonus, and Platinum and Executive Platinum members receive a 100% bonus.
The elite bonus is computed as a percentage of the base miles, which are the miles actually flown or, for shorter flights, the minimum miles awarded per flight, usually 500. The elite bonus calculation does not include class-of-service bonuses or promotional bonuses.
And while the bonus is referred to as an "elite bonus," the extra miles do not count toward elite status.
Upgrades
The more often you fly, and the longer the flights, the more alluring the prospect of a wider seat, with more legroom, and more space to stow your bags becomes. Yes, the elite bonus miles are a plus. But the overriding attraction of elite status for many is the upgrades.
There are two important variables when considering elite upgrades: whether the upgrade is complimentary or earned, and how far in advance the upgrade can be confirmed.
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