In a previous blog I shared a great tip on how to fly first class without having to pay through the nose to do so. Now I have another way you can get to the front of the line and the front of the plane without having to go into debt. The answer: elite programs.
Airlines call it “elite status,” and perks include early boarding, bonus miles and free seat upgrades. And if you think you have to earn a zillion miles to earn elite status, think again. Special programs and promotions will put you on the fast track. For example, I fly United Airlines and American Airlines exclusively and the latter offers regular customer challenges. Which basically means I can earn elite status in a three-month period. With American Airlines 5,000 points would give you gold status, 10,000 for platinum, so on and so forth.
If you are a frequent flier and hate the long check in lines at the airport… you can use your elite status to check in at the first class window, and if you have a weather delay the airline will go the extra mile to accommodate you (I can’t say they were so accommodating when I was a non-elite passenger).
Other carriers offer similar elite programs and promotions. For example, last year United ran a double elite qualifying miles promotion, where if you took so many flights during December, every flight you took counted double miles towards your elite qualifying status. What’s more, I recently learned that once you reach elite status, you’re able to ask competing carriers to match it, without having to fly a single mile. Basically you wind up switching your loyalty over to another airline and they’ll pick up the elite status for you.
You can learn more about these special deals and programs by visiting airline websites. I also like to check other travel related site’s message boards to read what other passengers have to say about each program. Remember each program and promotion works differently, so be sure to check out the rules and regulations carefully before you commit.
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