Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles - FAQ 7: TK status match (2012)

FAQ 7: TK status match

TK does operate a discretionary status match programme. The rules are not published and and there is no right to a status match.

The status match is a recent development and consistency does not always seem to be the case. If you are gold/platinum/emerald or have any other shiny elite card it is worth trying.

Unusually for a *A carrier TK seem to be matching other *Gs and not just Oneworld or Sky Team elites.

They are not matching to mid level i.e. classic plus (Star Alliance Silver).

How to match:

Sign up to Miles & Smiles (unless you already have an account)

Send an email to customermiles[at]thy.com requesting a match and include a PDF of your latest account statement and a picture of your card.

Note that the process can take anything from one to more than four weeks.

In most cases patience will be rewarded but you may need to remind them if you have not heard in 4 weeks. Call centre staff know nothing about the status match so no point in calling.

Card dispatch

There are conflicting experiences about the dispatch of the card pack. Some FTs have been told that the card will only be sent out once your credit some miles (any miles) to your Miles & Smiles account. Others received it without.



Please post successful/unsuccessful status matches below. (this old thread might also give you some idea of the process: http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/turkish-airlines-miles-smiles/979669-does-tk-status-match.html)

If matching from Skyteam Elite Plus, it is best to inform them that your status (i.e. DL Gold) qualifies you for TK's Elite tier. Several members have had issues with this.

Was able to match DL Gold to TK Elite. My email was in May and explained that TK had great connection times to South Asia and that I wanted to give them a try.

Haven't received the card and have since decided that A3 would be a better long-term *G program. On a recent SQ Y itinerary, I was able to use my TK account for *G benefits (such as lounge access, priority baggage, boarding) by having a printout of my account profile. I banked the miles to A3 without a problem.

I will likely be crediting a short 9W intra-India flight to TK soon just to get some miles in the program to get the card from TK.

I you got status matched, you don't even need a mile credited to receive the card. You should get it with the next batch!
Only "hard way" members receive their card after their first flight.

I you got status matched, you don't even need a mile credited to receive the card. You should get it with the next batch!
Only "hard way" members receive their card after their first flight.

I called TK and was told explicitly that I wouldn't receive a card until I credited a flight. I've yet to receive it.

Besides, I'm giving up a whopping 38 UA miles to credit that short flight to TK to get the card. I think I can live with that. :p

FAQ 7: TK status match
Note that the process can take anything from one to more than four weeks.

In most cases patience will be rewarded but you may need to remind them if you have not heard in 4 weeks. Call centre staff know nothing about the status match so no point in calling.

Original request 21 June, unacknowledged, follow-up 2 July, unacknowledged, called 3 July and learned about call center staff not knowing about the match, and today (10 July) it was upgraded to Elite Card level.

Since I was quick (in another thread) to note their failure to acknowledge my communications, it's only fair for me to give them prompt acknowledgment for wrapping things up in 19 days. Be more patient than I was. The top post in this thread covers it.

Next step: Crediting flight activity to them next week! (17-22 July)

ADDENDUM: Card received August 17th.

Successfully status matched from AC Elite (*G) to TK Elite.

Still very surprised that TK would match AC, but I'm not complaining. :)

The original request was made on June 13 (unacknowledged, of course), match approved June 27. There was no confirmation email - basically I was just checking the website every so often and hoping for the best.

received my packet yesterday. took a good 3+ weeks, I believe. at least 2 years of *Gold!

received my packet yesterday. took a good 3+ weeks, I believe. at least 2 years of *Gold!

Did you have to credit a flight to your TK account in order to get the packet?

Did you have to credit a flight to your TK account in order to get the packet?

Yes 1 flight. Can be *A flight.

Hey guys I"m about to do this. What information needs to be included in the initial email? Do you need to set up a TK account prior to asking for the status match? Thanks.

Hey guys I"m about to do this. What information needs to be included in the initial email? Do you need to set up a TK account prior to asking for the status match? Thanks.

See post 1 ;)

Yes 1 flight. Can be *A flight.

Can it be a non-*A partner as well? For example, 9W flight credited to TK?

Yes 1 flight. Can be *A flight.

lol, dude, why did you say yes and speak for me on that? that is definitely not the case. i have never credited anything to TK. i just signed up for an account the day before i requested the status match

Did you have to credit a flight to your TK account in order to get the packet?

i did NOT

See post 1 ;)

Not sure how I missed that. I sent in my request and next time I have a short portion of my flight on UA without an option for an upgrade I'll put in my TK #. I actually have a few trips I'll need to take to the middle east and India and I've had it with UA recently.

Has anyone had any luck being status matched to Elite Plus and if so have did you get the two free upgrades right away?

Has anyone had any luck being status matched to Elite Plus and if so have did you get the two free upgrades right away?

Zero reports of that happening.

Well they matched my UA Gold status to Elite which is sweet because I don't think I was going to make it with UA this year.

So do I have to accrue 80K miles to TK to make Elite +?

Did you have to credit a flight to your TK account in order to get the packet?

I got my packet without asking and so did one friend of mine. The other did not receive theirs and contacted TK and they refused to send one without crediting miles.

I bet they are not happy i have not credited any miles and accessed UC about 10 times in the last few months

I just got matched as a platinum elite for life with KLM to GOLD MILES AND SMILES.

I got my packet without asking and so did one friend of mine. The other did not receive theirs and contacted TK and they refused to send one without crediting miles.

I haven't received my packet yet and am hoping to get it without having to credit any miles to TK. When did you and your friend who received the packet get your status match and did you receive any email advising of the match? I did not receive any email other than the one about forwarding the request to the appropriate department. I found out that I was matched by checking my account online.

...
So do I have to accrue 80K miles to TK to make Elite +?

Yes.

I'm planning on doing a status match from UA Gold. Do they look at the actual flights listed in the activity statement? I haven't flown as much on UA in the past month, and UA Mileage Plus activity statements only go by one month periods.

As said in post 1, the rules of the match is unknown.
Those who matched early on wrote rather long personal letters explaining their flying patterns and intentions regarding future TK flights and attached at least half a year of flight log.
Others have written & attached less and got matched. There are also a few reports of denied matching. I suggest you make your case the strongest you can from start, and add as many months reports as needed to show your patterns and intents. It cant hurt, right?

I emailed my request yesterday around noon, including a scan of my AA Executive Platinum card and a PDF of my AA account statement. I also explained that I travel to Turkey at least once a year and have enjoyed my experiences flying TK.

I received an email at 4:30 this morning telling me that an Elite Card status match has been provided. When I checked my account, I saw that the status is good through July 31, 2014.

From now on, I will credit all my *A flights to TK.

Same here. Sent in photo of AA Exec Plat card yesterday afternoon and received match this morning.

I'm impressed!

Hello everyone

I first mailed TK around 3 weeks ago requesting a match. I attached scan of my BA Gold card and statement for previous 12 month flights. Explained I was going to IST in Oct and wanted to try them. Heard nothing so sent them a polite mail on Thursday, re-attaching the scan and statement.

Didn't hear back but checked online today and saw I'd been upgraded, valid to end July 2014. Very smooth so far, will look forward to their onboard service and what sounds like a great IST lounge.

HiTA

Zero reports of that happening.

What is the threshold to get the upgrades? Fly another 80,000 miles with them?

What is the threshold to get the upgrades? Fly another 80,000 miles with them?

Yes.

Wow! Less than 24 hours to match! Now I'm wondering whether it is worth crediting to TK or UA. I'm probably not going to hit the 50k this year, but will be well over 25k. Since TK requires only 25k to renew Gold (or 37.5k in two years), it may be worth while to funnel some miles over to TK. Although the 50% RDM bonus that I get with UA is still quite nice. Hmm...

Just received my package in the mail today without having credited any flights to TK. Took about a month after my status got approved, but hey -- no complaints here. :)

i was matched on June 19, still haven't received the card yet. Can I enter UA Club with the print out only? Thanks

i was matched on June 19, still haven't received the card yet. Can I enter UA Club with the print out only? Thanks

I'm also wondering the same thing, but for the US Club.

With pre-merger UA, they used to only scan boarding passes, at least for Mileage Plus members. I don't know what they do Star Gold, or if they check anything else since the merger.

I'm going to try with a print-out of my membership page, but would be very embarrassed if denied entry to the US Lounge.

will look forward to [.....] what sounds like a great IST lounge.

HiTA

Indeed, it's a great lounge! Almost on a par with BA F at T5. Although it's busy, there are plenty of seats, the breakfast offering is great, and right now they are putting out the most ENORMOUS bowls of huge, delicious cherries!

P.S. Got my match today and am now looking forward to flying TK more often. Requested it on Tuesday, decision received today - impressive. ^

Just received my welcome kit with my card yesterday.
Here are the pics

http://passageirodeprimeira.com/

I requested the match on June 28th with copies of my EXP and 1K profiles showing 90k and 50k EQM (respectively) YTD. I got an email on June 29th saying it was in process.

I haven't heard anything since and my status hasn't changed. Should I nudge TK again or do these decisions take this long?

Currently at the US Club at Boston Logan. I presented them a printed page of my TK Miles and Smiles account along with my boarding pass. After some typing, they let me in. I would definitely bring a print-out of the page and be sure to have the one that has the status expiration date.

Sent request on Monday, with QF Gold and NZ*G, also a booking from HKG to BCN on TK, got the following reply last night:

Dear 123dd:

Referring to your e-mail message dated August 03, 2012. (it was actually dated July 30th)

Elite card status match has been provided and your membership has been updated as '' Elite Card '' level.
We would like to be honoured to see you as an Elite member for your future flights by Turkish Airlines.

Kind Regards,
TURKISH AIRLINES INC.
CUSTOMER RELATIONS MANAGEMENT

I requested status match on 22nd of May and after several mails back and forth I was finally upgraded to Elite on 27th of June.
It seems no written rule about this status match, as a lot of people were denied at the first request.
I received the card 5 days later and a letter with baggage tags. My account shows 0 miles!
I am just thinking on Lufthansa as I had to fight for a lot of miles gained during my 13th year SEN status.
It is crystal clear that will not renew SEN status again.
Istanbul is great city, the lounge is the best at this moment and Turkish was voted Best Airline in Europe 2 consecutive years. Let's see !!

I never received my card. I just credited a flight to them that posted. How long should I wait before i contact them to get my card?

I keep getting an automated email that tells me how to join the Miles program. I must be doing something wrong.

I tried to match my QR silver twice. Never got approved. Did anyone had any success from QR to TK?

... match my QR silver ...

I think you have the answer right there. As far as all reports above and in other threads, they only consider match from the top tier of each program. Silver is only "middle" tier in QR.

Last Wednesday flew, miles posted on Saturday, Card arrived yesterday.

I think you have the answer right there. As far as all reports above and in other threads, they only consider match from the top tier of each program. Silver is only "middle" tier in QR.

I was matched with UA Gold, which is a lower-mid-level elite tier (there is GS, 1K, and Platinum). I think maybe TK did not match QR Silver because of the tier name. Silver usually implies the lowest of the elite levels for most airlines, which is not the case with QR.

I was matched with UA Gold, which is a lower-mid-level elite tier (there is GS, 1K, and Platinum). I think maybe TK did not match QR Silver because of the tier name. Silver usually implies the lowest of the elite levels for most airlines, which is not the case with QR.

That may very well be the case. Some early reports in the original thread (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/turkish-airlines-miles-smiles/979669-does-tk-status-match.html) said they were turned down in spite top tier cards, as they were not named "gold".

I tried to match my QR silver twice. Never got approved. Did anyone had any success from QR to TK?

I recalled that they were only matching status of those programs in either OW or ST alliances.

I sent both my QF Platinum and DJ Platinum for matching (and a friend sent his DJ Plat).

I was matched on the strength of the QF Platinum but refused on the DJ as they are not a member of one of the two above alliances.

My friend was refused on the same basis.

Card arrived today! Took about 3 weeks. I did credit a US Airways Shuttle flight last week, but don't know whether that had any effect.

(I had posted my earlier trials and tribulations in the old thread; final update here:)

1. Sent e-mail around mid-June. Had hit DL Gold but had not received DL card. TK asked for a picture of the card.

2. Finally received DL card in early July. Sent TK picture of DL Gold card; was match.

3. Received welcome packet from TK yesterday (8/8) with Gold card. Never credited any flights to TK. TK Elite (*G) status expires in July 2014.

Nice!

I submitted my LH SEN and BA Silver cards mid-July; received match one week or so ago and got an op-up to C on my first ever TK flight tonight. MUC-IST on an A321 with comfortable 2-2 seating. I'm starting to like TK!

I keep getting an automated email that tells me how to join the Miles program. I must be doing something wrong.
I am too!!!! I provided copy of card and statement and keep getting this


For reservations or more information, please contact with our 7/24 open Call Center 00 90 212 444 0 THY(849) or visit our web site www.thy.com Also you can contact with Turkish Airlines ticket sales office near to you.You can use this link for more information: http://www.thy.com/en-INT/contact_us/offices.aspx Thank you for choosing Turkish Airlines on your flights.
Yours Sincerely,
and

You can become a member of Miles&Smiles program via www.thy.com/smiles and also you can fill out an application form, available at all Turkish Airlines sales offices, travel agents or you can request a form from our cabin crew.

Also you can dial +90 212 444 0 849 /+90 850 333 0849 in order to become a member of Miles&Smiles program.
Thank you for choosing Turkish Airlines on your flights. Kind Regards,

Online customer service is available on our website in order to convey your compliment, comment and complaint. www.thy.com
Please note that in order to inform you on time regarding the possible operational changes about your flight, we highly recommended you to add your contact information and membership number -if available- on your reservation.





You have 0 miles in your TKXXXXXXX Classic membership account. You can claim your missing flights via https://www4.thy.com/tkmiles/login.tk?lang=en link with your membership ID and PIN Code.

My match got accepted. I have my first flight tomorrow, on Lufthansa, my boarding pass only says TKP on the status. I'm not sure this will get me into the lounge? Any suggestions on how I can ensure I do? I replied to the email I got accepting my match, asking for a lounge invitation and copy of the card.

My match got accepted. I have my first flight tomorrow, on Lufthansa, my boarding pass only says TKP on the status. I'm not sure this will get me into the lounge? Any suggestions on how I can ensure I do? I replied to the email I got accepting my match, asking for a lounge invitation and copy of the card.

See upthread. People have reported getting into lounges with a printout of their TK account info which shows *G status.

See upthread. People have reported getting into lounges with a printout of their TK account info which shows *G status.

Thanks, I missed that, its on the previous page for me.

The printout of the TK account doesn't make the *G status particularly clear though!

I just tried to access the lounge at DUS, access denied without an actual card!

Oh no! Now I feel partially responsible...

I guess it's going to be a tossup whether a given lounge will let you in or not without the physical card.

Oh no! Now I feel partially responsible...

I guess it's going to be a tossup whether a given lounge will let you in or not without the physical card.

It was worth it to see the facial expressions the LH lounge dragon made while examining the print out I gave her!
Clearly wanted me to see that I was asking for something highly irregular!

I'll try at LHR on the way back, or perhaps in the next few days TK will get back to me with a confirmation of status document to show.

It was worth it to see the facial expressions the LH lounge dragon made while examining the print out I gave her!
Clearly wanted me to see that I was asking for something highly irregular!

:D ^


I'll try at LHR on the way back, or perhaps in the next few days TK will get back to me with a confirmation of status document to show.

I wouldn't count on that, but try to get the BP re-printed with the help of a CA.

Emailed TK on 8th August with a scan of my OZ Diamond Card and screenshots of my activity.

Received email on 12th August confirming that my TK membership had been upgraded to 'Elite' Status.

Nice and painless procedure...if only CX Marco Polo would be similar!

Emailed TK on the 10th with screenshots of my UA Plat statement and membership card. Got the upgrade to Elite on the 14th. Now the question of whether to credit any flights to TK, since they don't give elite bonus miles on UA flights.

I have an upcoming flight on TAP that currently has my AC FF# on it. TK just matched me to Elite this morning from BA Gold after a request made late last night! Is there some site that allows FF numbers to be changed on generic *A bookings, like finnair is for OW bookings?

I have an upcoming flight on TAP that currently has my AC FF# on it. TK just matched me to Elite this morning from BA Gold after a request made late last night! Is there some site that allows FF numbers to be changed on generic *A bookings, like finnair is for OW bookings?

In the past I read here on FT that LOT Polish Airlines website can do numerous things to bookings...

Here you just enter your booking code and name:
https://www.lot.com/de/en/web/newlot/check-your-reservation

I am not sure if it still works, but it might be helpful.

IHere you just enter your booking code and name:
https://www.lot.com/de/en/web/newlot/check-your-reservation

Thanks. Tried that but didn't recognise the booking.

Call TP and ask them to change it, otherwise do it at the airport

FYI - LOT, LH, SK websites all work for Amadeus based reservations. If LOT did not recognize the reservation, it sounds as ifTP use a different system

I emailed my request yesterday around noon, including a scan of my AA Executive Platinum card and a PDF of my AA account statement. I also explained that I travel to Turkey at least once a year and have enjoyed my experiences flying TK.

I received an email at 4:30 this morning telling me that an Elite Card status match has been provided. When I checked my account, I saw that the status is good through July 31, 2014.

From now on, I will credit all my *A flights to TK.
I received my card and luggage tags late last week (about 3 weeks after the status match was granted). I had not credited a flight to TK before I received the card.

Call TP and ask them to change it, otherwise do it at the airport
I'll leave it until I get to the airport. No urgency.

FYI - LOT, LH, SK websites all work for Amadeus based reservations. If LOT did not recognize the reservation, it sounds as ifTP use a different system

If I check the bookng on flytap.com it redirects me to checkmytrip.com where it comes up. So it's definitely in Amadeus.

i was matched on June 19, still haven't received the card yet. Can I enter UA Club with the print out only? Thanks

Got the card today, haven't credited anything yet. That's exactly 2 months since they matched

Applied today, hopefully they are still matching with *A.

Applied today, hopefully they are still matching with *A.

Got a successful *A match last night!

Got the card today, haven't credited anything yet. That's exactly 2 months since they matched

Same here. Maybe they're sending a batch of them out now.

I was granted access without card to the Star Lounge at LHR T1 last night, just showed printout of status and also provided account number on request. So a different experience than at DUS, so YMMV.

I arrived back to my office today and found my new card waiting though, so no more problems!

Great to hear, fingers crossed, missing out on *A Gold with AC's changes to top tier.

If anyone happens to go to the HOR lounge, it's unmanned, therefore possible to access without card :)

Approved in less than two days. Thank you flyer talk members, would never have heard of this without you.

Approved in less than two days. Thank you flyer talk members, would never have heard of this without you.
Same here! And I was able to use a print out of my Elite Card info to get into the United lounge at EWR!

For people who recently submitted a match, what did you provide? Would a scan of elite card be enough?

I sent in a scanned copy of my card and a snapshot of my account summary page

I want to credit some UA flights for my trip tomorrow to my TK account and get a start on re-qualifying for *G from the status match. Do I need to include the TK in front of my FF#? It's showing up as TKTK123456789 on my reservation/boarding pass. Or do I leave it off? Will I have problems getting the mileage credit for this flight?

Any hints/tips will be helpful. Thanks!

I want to credit some UA flights for my trip tomorrow to my TK account and get a start on re-qualifying for *G from the status match. Do I need to include the TK in front of my FF#? It's showing up as TKTK123456789 on my reservation/boarding pass. Or do I leave it off? Will I have problems getting the mileage credit for this flight?

Any hints/tips will be helpful. Thanks!

No you don't include the letters "TK', just your number.

For people who recently submitted a match, what did you provide? Would a scan of elite card be enough?

I scanned AC Elite card, snap shot of my account statement and exported my historical flights to excel.

Anybody else struggling to get onto the TK website? Seems to be down... Too many M&S joining requests maybe? :rolleyes:

Same here! And I was able to use a print out of my Elite Card info to get into the United lounge at EWR!

Good to know. Just a snapshot of the account page?

Good to know. Just a snapshot of the account page?
Correct, just a snapshot of the account page showing the expiration date of my elite status.

Got a successful *A match last night!

What is the status match get you as a star alliance gold already that you dont already get as a star alliance gold member

It gets you access to the Airport Lounge ( for example United Club) when traveling domestically

Submitted my SA*G card details plus statement extract last night and logged into my Miles&Smiles account today at 9am, showing confirmed status match to TK*G. Less than 12 hours turnaround time! Very impressive!

What is the status match get you as a star alliance gold already that you dont already get as a star alliance gold member

Easier requalification requirements and also a two year validity of status (compared to SA*G at least).

It gets you access to the Airport Lounge ( for example United Club) when traveling domestically

Thanks..thats a valid reason

Submitted my information last week and this morning received confirmation match email. Hopefully I receive a card in short order so I can start accessing lounges.

I got my packet in the mail last Wednesday 6 weeks after submitting email for status match. I didn't credit any flights to my account though I was about to that day.

No problem getting in the RCC at LAX on my domestic flight so thanks M&S and OP.

Same here. Sent in photo of AA Exec Plat card yesterday afternoon and received match this morning.

I'm impressed!

Did you send a statement as well?

Has anyone been successful in obtaining a match from AA PLT (50,000+ miles a year) status into Gold with TK? It seems that they only match AA EXP (100,000+).

Has anyone been successful in obtaining a match from AA PLT (50,000+ miles a year) status into Gold with TK? It seems that they only match AA EXP (100,000+).
They didn't seem to care how many miles you have done, but only match to STE+, OWE and SA*G

Submitted my SA*G card details plus statement extract last night and logged into my Miles&Smiles account today at 9am, showing confirmed status match to TK*G. Less than 12 hours turnaround time! Very impressive!

For the record, received my new TK*G card today in the post (Germany). That makes a total turnaround time of exactly 16 days, from application to having my new card in hand, valid until 08/2014.

First trip will be credited this Sunday for requalification target.

I just received my credentials in the mail today; I haven't credited any miles to my account yet so that was a pleasant surprise...

Did you send a statement as well?

How does one get a statement, we do not receive any paper statements any more?

How does one get a statement, we do not receive any paper statements any more?

A screenshot is acceptable.

A screenshot is acceptable.

Ok thanks, I will try as they had sent me an email asking for card details and statements.

Been well over a month since my match, and no card yet. I'm assuming I will have to credit something. Can you credit a flight on US or UA?

Been well over a month since my match, and no card yet. I'm assuming I will have to credit something. Can you credit a flight on US or UA?

Yes.

I thought I'd let you know my experiences, I'm pleased to report the match is still active:
I'm Platinum with AF Flying Blue.

Sent in a scan of my card as well as a screenshot of my account homepage on September 22nd and logged into my Miles and Smiles account today to see that I've been matched to *A Gold thru September 2014

Will update when/if I receive a card in the post - my next flight on SQ isn't until late December so hope to have it by then to avoid having to bring printouts etc with me

Thanks for the info, this is a great match

Though I'd share my experience as well. Send an e-mail two days ago, with a scan of my BA Gold and printout of the latest transactions. Recieved an e-mail today saying:

Dear Papabear,

Referring to your e-mail message dated 24-09-2012 Elite card status match has been provided and your membership has been updated as ''Elite Card'' level.

We would like to be honoured to see you as an Elite member for your future flights by Turkish Airlines.
Kind Regards,

TURKISH AIRLINES INC.
CUSTOMER RELATIONS MANAGEMENT


Expire date of the card is September 2014.
I have to say time spend on FT is well spend! :):)

I am too!!!! I provided copy of card and statement and keep getting this

You can become a member of Miles&Smiles program via www.thy.com/smiles and also you can fill out an application form, available at all Turkish Airlines sales offices, travel agents or you can request a form from our cabin crew.

Also you can dial +90 212 444 0 849 /+90 850 333 0849 in order to become a member of Miles&Smiles program.
Thank you for choosing Turkish Airlines on your flights. Kind Regards,

Online customer service is available on our website in order to convey your compliment, comment and complaint. www.thy.com
Please note that in order to inform you on time regarding the possible operational changes about your flight, we highly recommended you to add your contact information and membership number -if available- on your reservation.

You have 0 miles in your TKXXXXXXX Classic membership account. You can claim your missing flights via https://www4.thy.com/tkmiles/login.tk?lang=en link with your membership ID and PIN Code.

I applied for a status match on the 24th. Checked my account today AM, and it was Elite. Checked my email 3 hours later and...

In order to evaluate your request about Gold membership status match, we would like you to open new Miles&Smiles membership account. You can become a member of Miles&Smiles program via www.thy.com/smiles and also you can fill out an application form, available at all Turkish Airlines sales offices, travel agents or you can request a form from our cabin crew.

Also you can dial +90 212 444 0 849 /+90 850 333 0849 in order to become a member of Miles&Smiles program. After you become a member, please send the copy of your Gold memberhsip card together with the copy of your membership statement to following e-mail adress; customermiles@thy.com

Thank you for choosing Turkish Airlines on your flights. Kind Regards,

TURKISH AIRLINES INC.
CUSTOMER RELATIONS MANAGEMENT



You have 0 miles in your TK XXX XXX XXX Elite membership account. You can claim your missing flights via https://www4.thy.com/tkmiles/login.tk?lang=en link with your membership ID and PIN Code.
If your Miles&Smiles card number is provided while making your reservation and at check-in, miles will be credited automatically to your account within two days following your flight.

Online customer service is available on our website in order to convey your compliment, comment and complaint. www.thy.com
Please note that in order to inform you on time regarding the possible operational changes about your flight, we highly recommended you to add your contact information and membership number -if available- on your reservation.

:confused::confused::confused:

I can log in and everything looks in order, including an Elite expiry date of 30 September 2014. Not sure what to make of it really.

UPDATE*- Called them and checked and they said the account is, in fact, active with Elite status. I'm not sure what that email was about. They aren't either, by the sound of it.

It is not perfect, my wife sent her LH Senator card and received the answer, that from *A, only *G will be matched.;)

Received match in the end of August and received card today in the mail. (Have not credited any flights to account)

Wondering if anyone has had any issues using the card to enter United Lounges when your UA number is on the boarding pass?

Are there any rules stating that access will be granted only if the mileage account is being used for travel?

I got matched in mid-July

still no card yet,

I credited a hilton stay 500 miles a couple of weeks ago, still no card arrived


Received match in the end of August and received card today in the mail. (Have not credited any flights to account)

Wondering if anyone has had any issues using the card to enter United Lounges when your UA number is on the boarding pass?

Are there any rules stating that access will be granted only if the mileage account is being used for travel?

Same here!
Got matched in Jul, credited a *A flight, but no plastic yet ...
Seems like I'm not the only one here.

Try calling them? Mid July is a long time ago.

I send them an Mail 3 weeks ago, no answer yet.
Than I remailed it last week but still neither an answer nor showing elite in the account ?!

I just sent in my request today. I'm *G (Elite) on AC. I have a TK flight for November. With the changes at AC -- not sure if I'll hit the required status miles to get *G next year so a match with TK would be awesome! Saves me a mileage run :cool:

If/when I get the status, I will post it here. I see there are mixed responses with respect to the time it takes to post the match.

An update on the process for me:

Sept 22 - sent the email requested status match from Flying Blue Plat
Sept 27 - login to see I've been upgraded to M&S gold
Oct 8 - receive welcome pack in the post with baggage tags and my gold card.

I live in London, and didn't send any supplementary emails or make phone calls checking on progress with the match etc.

I did not credit anything to the M&S account either, the welcome pack arrived without any prompting

Good luck with your matches

I was reading the M&S FAQs -- once they status match to Elite. Assuming that you don't accumulate enough miles in 2 years, they will then revert your status to Classic Plus -- which is equivalent to Star Alliance Silver and is valid for an additional 2 years?

So, by matching *G -- you are essentially getting 2 years at *G and 2 years at *S for doing absolutely nothing?

Renewal:
In order to re-qualify for Elite membership , Members residing in Turkey need to collect 30.000 Status Miles either within the first year or 45.000 Status Miles within 2 years of the Elite membership.
Members residing out of Turkey need to collect 25.000 Status Miles either within the first year or 37.500 Status Miles within 2 years of the Elite membership. Otherwise, the membership status will be renewed as "Classic Plus".
...
Classic Plus Card is valid for 2 years.

So, by matching *G -- you are essentially getting 2 years at *G and 2 years at *S for doing absolutely nothing?

That's correct.

That's correct.

Awesome! ^

I sent them an email with a copy of my card and statement on 10/7, and was just matched today (had to check and see myself, they never sent an email or anything).

I'm hoping that they send me my card and welcome kit, but wanted to know if anyone else had trouble entering their address in the account profile?? I live in the United States and the drop-down box for city did not have my town in it. Anyone else have this issue? I just want to make sure my card does not get stuck in the mail.

Same here!
Got matched in Jul, credited a *A flight, but no plastic yet ...
Seems like I'm not the only one here.

my wife got matched a week later than me, but received the card in early Aug.

I also knew another person had the similar situation, don't know why some people got whereas others don't.

I sent them an email with a copy of my card and statement on 10/7, and was just matched today (had to check and see myself, they never sent an email or anything).

Arrrg... I sent my request in on 10/7 too and still no change to status :(

What's the phone number/e-mail to contact in order to get my Elite card mailed out as soon as possible?

What's the phone number/e-mail to contact in order to get my Elite card mailed out as soon as possible?

I called the number in Turkey for Miles and Smiles using a calling card. Everything worked. Was on hold for 15 min (actually a godsend after years of dealing with AC)

+90 212 444 0 849

Applied - 23 Sept
Matched - 26 Sept
Got the card - 11 Oct

14 days for Canada. Pretty decent.

With international regular mail, loss is always a possibility, so those who haven't recieved them, check with TK about getting a new package sent out.

Arrrg... I sent my request in on 10/7 too and still no change to status :(

Got an email earlier today:

Please be informed that only Star Alliance Gold , Skyteam Elite Plus and Oneworld Emerald members have an opportunity for Status Match.

Therefore we are sorry that we are unable to meet your demand positively.

The irony is that I **AM** star alliance gold with AC. Strange because I said so in my email request to Turkish Airlines. Oh well. I just resent my request for the status match again via email ....... waiting....

Got an email earlier today:



The irony is that I **AM** star alliance gold with AC. Strange because I said so in my email request to Turkish Airlines. Oh well. I just resent my request for the status match again via email ....... waiting....

They turned down your status match to AE *G?

That is strange - maybe they got wind of AC's new 35k *S 'Elite" :rolleyes: which, incidentally, is why I dropped AC last year.

FWIW, when I got TK*G, I got that rather confused email that told me both that the TK account I had set up had been status matched, and that I had to set up a new account (made no sense at all - a call confirmed that everything was in order).

Remember to send a picture of your card and pdf of your statement a second time round.

To echo someone else's question:

Let's say I am accepted for the status match to TK "elite" ... *G status.

And I fly UA domestically in the USA.

My goals will be:

-3 heavy bags for free
-free lounge access
-earn UA miles

Can I accomplish all 3 goals by entering my UA Mileage Plus number on my reservations?

Will I still get 3 heavy bags at the counter by flashing the TK card?
Will the UA agent delete my UA number if I do that and replace with the TK number?
Will I get into lounge with a BP that has a UA number on it, even if I flash the TK card?

Thanks

Has anyone had issues with the webiste for Miles and More? Seems that the address function does not work that well.. Not all cities are in the Drop Down? any one have the same issue and received their card in the mail? Thanks and Safe Travels

Finally got my status match. So, my timing to get matched was:

Oct 7 - 1st request for status match sent
Oct 11 - 1st request wrongly rejected
Oct 11 -- 2nd request sent
Oct 16 -- 2nd request approved

Looks like the moral of the story is to be explicit in your requesting email -- just say you are "Star Alliance Gold" and don't mention which airline you happen to have that status with.

Happy travels!

I sent in a request from *G to TK*G, and was "accepted" two days later. Teşekkür ederiz, FT!

Also, although some FTers have anecdotal reports of receiving their new Miles & Smiles card without taking a flight, according to the Turkish Airlines webpage:

"3. When will I receive my Miles&Smiles card?

Your Miles&Smiles membership card will be sent to your address once you fly with Turkish Airlines or any of Star Alliance Member Airlines.You can use your membership number or temporary card until you receive your permanent card."

from http://www.turkishairlines.com/en-int/miles-and-smiles/faq/miles-and-smiles

Finally got my status match. So, my timing to get matched was:

Oct 7 - 1st request for status match sent
Oct 11 - 1st request wrongly rejected
Oct 11 -- 2nd request sent
Oct 16 -- 2nd request approved

Looks like the moral of the story is to be explicit in your requesting email -- just say you are "Star Alliance Gold" and don't mention which airline you happen to have that status with.

Happy travels!

So you were able to email them without proof of *G and get a status match??

Also, although some FTers have anecdotal reports of receiving their new Miles & Smiles card without taking a flight, according to the Turkish Airlines webpage:

"3. When will I receive my Miles&Smiles card?

Your Miles&Smiles membership card will be sent to your address once you fly with Turkish Airlines or any of Star Alliance Member Airlines.You can use your membership number or temporary card until you receive your permanent card."

That probably goes for new members with no status, who need to accumulate a few miles to justify the card production costs. Miles & More has the same requirement in general.

I signed up the day I sent in my status match request. TK could just assume I'll be flying with them a lot based on my email, but I didn't plan on flashing the Miles & Smiles card (as opposed to my current *G card) until at least early next year anyway...though it would be nice to have on hand ASAP, of course.

Anyway, it seems many people in this thread signed up for TK's card just for this, and the time it took for them to receive the card is greatly varied.

Now I am puzzled... I requested status match as I am United Premier Gold... Got the status match to M&S Elite (*A Gold)... but this is written on the M&S homepage...

To qualify for Elite Plus Membership, Elite card holders must collect a minimum number of Status Miles (Status Miles can be collected only on Turkish Airlines and other Star Alliance member airlines flights) within 12 consecutive months.

Please enter a date to calculate how many status miles more you should collect until the selected date to qualify for Elite Plus status.

As of 17.10.2012 miles are required to be ugraded to Elite Plus --- 80.000

I am requested to do 80000 miles in 12 consecutive months to qualify for Elite Plus? And how many to re-qualify to "just" elite?

Now I am puzzled... I requested status match as I am United Premier Gold... Got the status match to M&S Elite (*A Gold)... but this is written on the M&S homepage...

To qualify for Elite Plus Membership, Elite card holders must collect a minimum number of Status Miles (Status Miles can be collected only on Turkish Airlines and other Star Alliance member airlines flights) within 12 consecutive months.

Please enter a date to calculate how many status miles more you should collect until the selected date to qualify for Elite Plus status.

As of 17.10.2012 miles are required to be ugraded to Elite Plus --- 80.000

I am requested to do 80000 miles in 12 consecutive months to qualify for Elite Plus? And how many to re-qualify to "just" elite?

Noticed that as well. TK has Elite and Elite Plus as the statuses that are recognized as *G. You were made Elite, which is valid for two years (just as your TK*G membership will be), but if you want TK's highest status, you'll have to actually earn it: http://www.turkishairlines.com/en-us/miles_and_smiles/about_us/card_levels/kart_elite_plus.aspx .

I requested a match for my mom on Oct 02, and was expecting a quick reply. A week passed, and I was getting worried. I thought it was rejected or something, but I should at least get a reply.

Low and behold, it ended up in the spam folder because a manager(?) replied personally, using a different email. It requested for me to send a copy of my statement and gold card, which is perplexing as it's exactly what they have received.

I promptly resent them what they wanted, but received no reply.

After noticing a few members here having their accounts being upgraded without receiving a reply, I decided to log into her account to try my luck.

Now my only worry is whether or not they'll send the card ;)

Just opened a Miles and Smiles Account the other day (Classic). Sent in my request with Documentation for Status Match to my UA *Gold Card. Received a favorable reply and I am now Miles and Smiles Elite. Has anyone under these circumstances received the physical Miles and Smiles Card ( mailed to a USA address ) AND had no prior activity posted to Turkish Air at all? Thanks and Safe Travels

Finally got my status match. So, my timing to get matched was:

Oct 7 - 1st request for status match sent
Oct 11 - 1st request wrongly rejected
Oct 11 -- 2nd request sent
Oct 16 -- 2nd request approved

Looks like the moral of the story is to be explicit in your requesting email -- just say you are "Star Alliance Gold" and don't mention which airline you happen to have that status with.

Happy travels!

Got exact the same timing. Though I was not rejected on 10/11, rather they asked me to send the request to a different email address. I though that it was a junk mail and already deleted it. Later, I found out that it's not. :D

I requested a match 13OCT and received the Welcome-email 17OCT. Yay!

Have my first LH (or any *A for that matter) flight tomorrow. Tried to add the TK number to the booking, didnt stick. Called LH and they told me its a technical error, maybe they can fix it at the airport. Tried to add it during OLCI, status is not recognised either. This might turn out to be a problem as I dont have a card yet to show for lounge access..

I sent in my request 3 weeks ago, with copy of elite cards and screen shot of account ( no statements to send as only online)

Got a reply from manager asking me to send copy of card and statement so I resent still nothing...

Hopefully they will work soon as I have a TK flight coming soon...

I am *G with LH (SEN), but only until Feb 2013. Hopefully TK will still match this.

I also started to get *G with A3 but don't have it yet (but have booked flights that will easily get me over the threshold by December). Actually, I credited 9 TK flights this year to A3.

Should I mention this in my email request or would this just make things complicated?

thanks,
Sebastian

ps: pls don't ask me why i didn't just go for TK from the start :rolleyes:

Emailed TK about 4 hours ago with a copy of my MileagePlus Premier Platinum card and a screenshot of my MileagePlus account.

I just logged into my Miles & Smiles account and saw that my account had already been upgraded to Elite! I'd say that's pretty fast. :)

Emailed TK about 4 hours ago with a copy of my MileagePlus Premier Platinum card and a screenshot of my MileagePlus account.

I just logged into my Miles & Smiles account and saw that my account had already been upgraded to Elite! I'd say that's pretty fast. :)


That is amazing :) I just wish they were consistant :) I have a BKK flight with them in three weeks and still waiting... Makes me weary if they are tjis wishy washy on the ground...

Why not? I did mentioned 2 flights with them this year.

I am *G with LH (SEN), but only until Feb 2013. Hopefully TK will still match this.

I also started to get *G with A3 but don't have it yet (but have booked flights that will easily get me over the threshold by December). Actually, I credited 9 TK flights this year to A3.

Should I mention this in my email request or would this just make things complicated?

thanks,
Sebastian

ps: pls don't ask me why i didn't just go for TK from the start :rolleyes:

Has anyone had issues with the webiste for Miles and More? Seems that the address function does not work that well.. Not all cities are in the Drop Down? any one have the same issue and received their card in the mail? Thanks and Safe Travels

Yup. Posted credit to the account in August, no card yet. Website doesn't have Brooklyn, and nothing received via my c/o work address in Manhattan. Called them couple of weeks ago and they said a) wait longer, and b) they would send an email to the dept requesting a kit be sent. I was certainly hoping to have the card b4 the end of October.

Hmm, now that this thread reminds me, when it asked me to confirm the countries I live in, United States and Turkey were listed; anyone who has received the card, did you notice this too? A lot happens when one goes to sleep...

After weeks of waiting and numerous emails with copies of flight activities AND copis of *G and OW emerald cards still no replies and no match...

So what are people doing in the absence of an actual card for accessing *G lounges (namely UA)?

took 3 emails and skyping to Turkey but i got an email showing my statement with "ELITE" at the top!

Emailed TK about 4 hours ago with a copy of my MileagePlus Premier Platinum card and a screenshot of my MileagePlus account.

I just logged into my Miles & Smiles account and saw that my account had already been upgraded to Elite! I'd say that's pretty fast. :)

Whoa - lucky you!! Not my experience at all however.

Day 1: Emailed my (newly registered) TK number, US *G number, screen shot of my US *G card and a screen shot of my US profile (clearly showing my status, address, name, etc...

Day 5: Received a response telling me to sign up for a new account and to then request for the match.

Day 5: I responded stating I already had an account and the website wouldn't allow me to sign up for a new (second) one.

Day 12: I sent another email (this is today) with all of the original information. We'll see how it goes :)

took 3 emails and skyping to Turkey but i got an email showing my statement with "ELITE" at the top!

WHAT? Really? Can I get that username for them so maybe I can make some progress...? THANK YOU!

So what are people doing in the absence of an actual card for accessing *G lounges (namely UA)?

On Thursday at the SFO Terminal 3 UA Club, I showed the lady at the front a printout of my account information, which shows the TK Elite card in the upper left and my TK number in the information.

No problems at all. She scanned my BP (With my United MileagePlus number on it) and welcomed me. ^

WHAT? Really? Can I get that username for them so maybe I can make some progress...? THANK YOU!

I skyped their customer service phone number in Turkey.

Make sure you have your Miles/smiles number and your pin handy.

Also make sure you know how to enter the keypad on the phone call.

Their computer phone answering system will bark orders at you, and tell you to "please enter the information requested as fast as possible!"

It took 3 transfers to the English speaking desk, first guy spoke Turkish and broken English with presumably Turkish syntax, second guy I think was the German desk, and 3rd guy understood me perfectly....

Sent the email on the 5th of October, saw match in the account on the 9th (they sent me an email on the 10th) and card was just received today. I was a bit concerned because the account profile only allowed me to choose a city from a list of large metropolitan areas in the USA. Anyone know for sure if this grants lounge access in United Clubs when traveling domestic?

I requested a match 13OCT and received the Welcome-email 17OCT. Yay!

Have my first LH (or any *A for that matter) flight tomorrow. Tried to add the TK number to the booking, didnt stick. Called LH and they told me its a technical error, maybe they can fix it at the airport. Tried to add it during OLCI, status is not recognised either. This might turn out to be a problem as I dont have a card yet to show for lounge access..

Update:

First flight was 19OCT, completed four segments, all of which I was able to enjoy Gold benefits. Exit row 11 (ABC) rocks on the LH A321!

Today I arrived back home and a shiny TK *A card was waiting in my mailbox. Which will be useful for getting lounge access (Though neither lounges in AMS nor LH & Aegean lounge in ATH had any problems to let me in without a card. They just needed the number.)

Update:

First flight was 19OCT, completed four segments, all of which I was able to enjoy Gold benefits. Exit row 11 (ABC) rocks on the LH A321!

Today I arrived back home and a shiny TK *A card was waiting in my mailbox. Which will be useful for getting lounge access (Though neither lounges in AMS nor LH & Aegean lounge in ATH had any problems to let me in without a card. They just needed the number.)

Huh. I always thought LH were sticklers for "the rules" and required a physical card.

Huh. I always thought LH were sticklers for "the rules" and required a physical card.

Perhaps I got lucky since I didn't encounter any "true" LH personnel:

- Check in AMS: Outsourced
- Lounge AMS: Contract lounge for all *A elites
- Check in ATH: Status was already in ticket
- LH Lounge in ATH: Outsourced, I pass often in ATH and I know the people that run the lounges well. So we got talking and access was allowed by a single scan of the BP only.
- Aegean lounge in ATH: A printout from the Turkish profile page was enough

I might have been less successful if I would want to visit the lounge in FRA or MUC. But in my case I didn't have close to enough time there to try the lounges.

I enrolled on oct 5, emailed for match oct 7, got match confirmed oct 10, & received gold card today (in AK), oct 30. haven't credited any miles yet.

I enrolled on oct 5, emailed for match oct 7, got match confirmed oct 10, & received gold card today (in AK), oct 30. haven't credited any miles yet.

This really is hit and miss I see.... I have sent them the documents now 5 times first time they asked me to send the proof in and after that NO replies... Oh well if I do not hear from them I will just credit the miles to A3... I hope the on flight service is better then preflight :D

Huh. I always thought LH were sticklers for "the rules" and required a physical card.

Not any more.

Your BP with *G will suffice !

After 9 emails my upgrade went through today ;)

I send them already 6 Mails but they havent replied nor upgraded my Acoount yet :(

I send them already 6 Mails but they havent replied nor upgraded my Acoount yet :(

:) Only three more emails and should be golden :)

My 3 sons and I all e-mailed our SM request 2nd week of Oct. Got matched in less than a week, and got our Elite cards in the mail before the end of the month.

My 3 sons and I all e-mailed our SM request 2nd week of Oct. Got matched in less than a week, and got our Elite cards in the mail before the end of the month.

From the time you requested the Elite match to the time you got the cards, did you fly using the TK FF#?

Now that I've status matched (from UA), I'm wondering how fun it'll be when trying to contact TK customer service (when residing in the US or East Asia) about an issue...thoughts?

No, we never flew using a TK FF#, but got the cards rather quickly anyway. No phone calls, no e-mails. They just came automatically.

For the record, I sent my FFP card scan and recent e-statements copy on the 29-Oct to customermiles@thy.com. On the 2nd of November, I got a stupid reply saying "1000 Welcome Miles of Miles&Smiles will be credited to account after the first statu miles earned flight of Turkish Airlines, AnadoluJet or other Star Alliance member Airlines or it will be credited after the first shoping by Miles&Smiles credit card.Bonus miles earned airlines' flights (Jet Airways ..) and activities in other programme partners except Garanti Bank are not elligable for Welcome Miles accrual." When I checked online, the status was still the regular Classic membership.

However, checked just now (04-Nov), and it shows me as *A Gold effective 02-Nov with a status expiry of "30/11/2014"! Woo-hoo - and super to get *A Gold for the next 2 years -will be most helpful in 2014, when my United membership will probably not be renewed!

Hello,
I am LH Senator (*G) and unhappy with Miles&More. So I am considering matching the Status with TK. Reading this thread aparently TK matches other *A status, so that should be fine.

Will LH Sen give me TK E or TK E+? I mean getting TK E+ would give me 4 years of *G and 2 yeats of *S, right? And that for nothing? I would probably be able to requalify for E, but not for E+, and in 6 years so many things can happen and who know if in 1-2 years I would be able to requalify....

Have you guys just sent the scan of your current card or the statement as well?

Hello,
I am LH Senator (*G) and unhappy with Miles&More. So I am considering matching the Status with TK. Reading this thread aparently TK matches other *A status, so that should be fine.

Will LH Sen give me TK E or TK E+? I mean getting TK E+ would give me 4 years of *G and 2 yeats of *S, right? And that for nothing? I would probably be able to requalify for E, but not for E+, and in 6 years so many things can happen and who know if in 1-2 years I would be able to requalify....

Have you guys just sent the scan of your current card or the statement as well?

They only match to elite. Scans will do fine.

Will LH Sen give me TK E or TK E+?
TK will only match to TK E, irrespective of your current membership.

Have you guys just sent the scan of your current card or the statement as well?
I would send a web-to-pdf of your current online statement from LH along with a scan of the physical card. I sent both and there were no questions asked after that.

I actually just got matched from SEN and my SEN is expiring 2/13.

Obviously to Elite and not Elite Plus (why should they give you their toptier for LH's second tier :confused: -- not that I know of HON being matched to E+, but just saying it would not make sense to get E+ for SEN)

Anyhow, send the things everybody here said and you should be fine. 1st request sent Oct22, re-sent on Oct30. Matched on Nov1.

Thanks starflyergold and everybody who shared info here!
-Sebastian

Does anyone know how long this offer will stand?

SB

Finally got my status match. So, my timing to get matched was:

Oct 7 - 1st request for status match sent
Oct 11 - 1st request wrongly rejected
Oct 11 -- 2nd request sent
Oct 16 -- 2nd request approved

Looks like the moral of the story is to be explicit in your requesting email -- just say you are "Star Alliance Gold" and don't mention which airline you happen to have that status with.

Happy travels!

Wanted to update this post:

Nov 6 -- Received "Miles & Smiles" Welcome kit. (Kit only comes with "Elite" card and 2 really poor quality not customized luggage tags)

For those of you who are interested...

October 10 -- Status match approved.
November 7 -- Welcome Kit received.

No miles/points posted to my account yet.

Does anyone know what status a Flying Blue Platinum is matched to?

Does anyone know what status a Flying Blue Platinum is matched to?
TK Elite/Star Alliance Gold.

Website doesn't have Brooklyn

Little-known fact: you can select "Other", and then it will give you a box to type in your city name.

I am really interested in having a match, but I dont get the following:

Will my award miles get transferred along with you, or does it get set to zero?

Will my original account still exist or would it be cancelled?

What about all of the Oneworld Saphire memers? Because I would like to convert my British Airways executive club silver card as it should be on par with the status of THY`s Elite status.

(I`m sorry if these questions seem really dumb)

:p

Will my award miles get transferred along with you, or does it get set to zero?
If you are referring to your original TK account, then your award miles balance should stay the same. Only your elite status will change.

If you are referring to your FFP account on another airline, then your award miles balance will not transfer. The only thing to change in any account will be your TK status.
Will my original account still exist or would it be cancelled?
Your original TK account will continue to exist, just with a new status level.

The FFP account which you use to match to TK will remain unchanged. That FFP will have no way of knowing that you have done a status match with Turkish.

What about all of the Oneworld Saphire memers? Because I would like to convert my British Airways executive club silver card as it should be on par with the status of THY`s Elite status.

It has been reported that TK is only matching OneWorld Emerald members (BAEC Gold and Premier). You may well be out of luck as a Sapphire member, but it is probably worth your time to send a short email to TK and request a match anyway.

In the first email I wrote a small friendly paragraph, and I sent them a screenshot of my A3 Miles and Bonus account activity page which shows I am *A GOLD.
No reply whatsoever, and when I log-in to TK miles & smiles it shows I am still "classic"

I sent 2 emails, one on Nov 3 and another on Nov 6.

2 questions:

1. When should I follow up?
2. What did you put in the subject line of the email? (As I am worried it went to their SPAM folder.)

In the first email I wrote a small friendly paragraph, and I sent them a screenshot of my A3 Miles and Bonus account activity page which shows I am *A GOLD.
No reply whatsoever, and when I log-in to TK miles & smiles it shows I am still "classic"

I sent 2 emails, one on Nov 3 and another on Nov 6.

2 questions:

1. When should I follow up?
2. What did you put in the subject line of the email? (As I am worried it went to their SPAM folder.)

You probably need to send a scan of your actual card as well.

For the record, I sent my FFP card scan and recent e-statements copy on the 29-Oct to customermiles@thy.com. On the 2nd of November, I got a stupid reply saying "1000 Welcome Miles of Miles&Smiles will be credited to account after the first statu miles earned flight of Turkish Airlines, AnadoluJet or other Star Alliance member Airlines or it will be credited after the first shoping by Miles&Smiles credit card.Bonus miles earned airlines' flights (Jet Airways ..) and activities in other programme partners except Garanti Bank are not elligable for Welcome Miles accrual." When I checked online, the status was still the regular Classic membership.

However, checked just now (04-Nov), and it shows me as *A Gold effective 02-Nov with a status expiry of "30/11/2014"! Woo-hoo - and super to get *A Gold for the next 2 years -will be most helpful in 2014, when my United membership will probably not be renewed!

And I got the following email yesterday (08-Nov):

From: MUSTERI ILETISIM MERKEZI <customer@thy.com>
Date: Thu, Nov 8, 2012 at 6:55 PM
Subject: ##Ticket Number#
To: <My Email>


Dear Nimish Gupta,
Referring to your e-mail message dated 29.10.2012, Elite card status match has been provided and your membership has been updated as '' Elite Card '' level.

We would like to be honoured to see you as an Elite member for your future flights by Turkish Airlines.

Kind Regards,
TURKISH AIRLINES INC.
CUSTOMER RELATIONS MANAGEMENT

Very nice indeed - so the TK status match system works, but at it's own pace and in a slightly uncoordinated manner. The only thing missing right now is to receive the physical kit, not sure if that will take place without any airline activity.

Do you have to enter TK Elite FF# in your reservation (so it shows up when you print your boarding pass) in order to use domestic lounges in the US,specifically UA clubs and the LH IAD lounge..? My match took less than 3 days

I signed up for Miles&Smiles yesterday and e-mailed last night with a pdf of my UA MP statement, a scan of my MP Card and a little write up about my upcoming flights and such. I woke up this morning and I had been matched to Elite. :D

Yet another example of succesful match to TKG - this time from EBG
Sent initial request on 20th Oct., followed up on 1st Nov and received a confirmation email from Miles&Smiles on 8th Nov telling me the happy story of being awarded TK Elite status. So gold in *A for at least 2 years.

However my friend who tried the same (EBG -> TKG) was turned down. I don't know what their selection procedure might be.

Now: awaiting card in the mailbox.

who should I contact to request TK gold card? I didn't receive mine and my match was approved in mid-july, i just put 500 miles there two months ago, but still have not yet receive the card. My partner received hers.

Wanted to update this post:

Nov 6 -- Received "Miles & Smiles" Welcome kit. (Kit only comes with "Elite" card and 2 really poor quality not customized luggage tags)

Hi Sam_AE how are you? Glad to hear that things worked out for you so quickly. I am in a similiar position as you and am Located in LAX. I have not received my card. Just curious to know where you are located? Thanks and Safe Travels..

Do you have to enter TK Elite FF# in your reservation (so it shows up when you print your boarding pass) in order to use domestic lounges in the US,specifically UA clubs and the LH IAD lounge..? My match took less than 3 days

No need. Just show the card w/boarding pass.

Hi
I told a friend who was BD G to contact TK for a status match so he emailed a couple of weeks ago. Unfortunately as the scan showed his card to be BD they wrote back saying that as he was no long a *G (as BD had gone) they were refusing him. Such a pity.

Thanks to starflyergold for originally posting and my buddy Flying Machine for letting me know.

I sent in last Monday and had the match on Wednesday. I sent in too for Mrs 1K_From_SNA on Friday although she may not get it as she is 1K because I am, so there isn't all that many miles showing. We'll see.

Thanks

Stupid question: Can one credit miles to UA while receiving *A benefits from TK status?

Stupid question: Can one credit miles to UA while receiving *A benefits from TK status?

Yes. You'll have to swap FF#'s at the gate if you're using it for the checked bag. The lounges will generally admit without having it on your boarding pass.

Hi
I told a friend who was BD G to contact TK for a status match so he emailed a couple of weeks ago. Unfortunately as the scan showed his card to be BD they wrote back saying that as he was no long a *G (as BD had gone) they were refusing him. Such a pity.

Your friend should do the BA status match, get BA gold card and then TK should match the BA card. My BA card was status matched last week.

Sent request for match of my FB plat on the 6 Nov, just logged into my M&S account and greeted with a *Gold card. ^ Status match date indicate 9 Nov, pretty efficient. No email notification though.

I have Emirates Skywards Gold through a travel arrangement from work (even though I have never, and probably will never, travel for work). I've never flown a single mile on Emirates, so my account statement is empty.
Would I be able to get away with just providing a scan of my Skywards Gold card to request a status much? Is it a case of YMMV? I'm guessing that I have nothing to lose by trying.

Took a while but finally GOLD!!!

Took a while but finally GOLD!!!

Let me guess, the status match date shows November 9th? Seems TK only checks their status match emails once in a blue moon.

Would I be able to get away with just providing a scan of my Skywards Gold card to request a status much? Is it a case of YMMV? I'm guessing that I have nothing to lose by trying.

Try, but don't expect success. I sent them both my Skywards Gold and Flying Blue Gold cards initially and they declined the first time. I re-sent the note without the Skywards card and it was approved.

Let me guess, the status match date shows November 9th? Seems TK only checks their status match emails once in a blue moon.

I will check and get back to you on that. But boy, oh boy, back and forth emails, picture shots of my card. So Status is good till 2014. So this means next year I need to attain 37000 miles to keep my status??

Try, but don't expect success. I sent them both my Skywards Gold and Flying Blue Gold cards initially and they declined the first time. I re-sent the note without the Skywards card and it was approved.
Thanks for the response. I guess TK must reallly hate EK or something...lol.

You need to send in a statement of account as well as a scan of your card. I sent mine in at the end of OCtober and was match on... Wait for it.... 9 November. I will believe it when my card and luggage tags arrive....

I have Emirates Skywards Gold through a travel arrangement from work (even though I have never, and probably will never, travel for work). I've never flown a single mile on Emirates, so my account statement is empty.
Would I be able to get away with just providing a scan of my Skywards Gold card to request a status much? Is it a case of YMMV? I'm guessing that I have nothing to lose by trying.

my understanding is they are only status matching those of one of the alliances, either OW, ST and including *A but not those programs which are not part of an alliance.

Does the TK gold status permit a guest to use the United Club too or is it just one per card?

Does the TK gold status permit a guest to use the United Club too or is it just one per card?
Star Alliance Gold status permits the card holder and one guest to enter the lounge, provided that both are departing passengers on a Star Alliance flight.

Without too much expectations, sent in a request for a match from FB Platinum on Nov 8th with a follow up 3 days later but no dice until now...if nothing by end of the month I will try MileagePlus route...

I wrote twice to "customermiles@thy.com" with no response for two weeks or so. I just wrote to the address on the web site which is "milesandsmiles@thy.com".

I will check and get back to you on that. But boy, oh boy, back and forth emails, picture shots of my card. So Status is good till 2014. So this means next year I need to attain 37000 miles to keep my status??

November 2,2012

Has anyone whom resides in the USA, and Status Matched in the last few months, received a TK Elite *Gold Card in the mail without any flights posted to your account? Thanks in advance and Safe Travels

Ive sent several emails requesting a status match and have heard nothing in return...not a good first impression that's for sure!

I randomly found out today that you can get your Miles&Smiles card printed at IST. They have a little desk in the international terminal (relatively near where you can buy TK tickets), but it's easy to miss.

You show the representative your passport, and a minute later a (~status matched~) card appears.

I randomly found out today that you can get your Miles&Smiles card printed at IST. They have a little desk in the international terminal (relatively near where you can buy TK tickets), but it's easy to miss.

You show the representative your passport, and a minute later a (~status matched~) card appears.

^ Good info. I land in IST next week and will look for this desk before heading to my hotel. Thanks!

I was status matched November 9th and card arrived november 23rd. Though I did fly TK in between and also as a courtesy credited the flights to TK since they were kind enough to match me :)

I was status matched November 9th and card arrived november 23rd. Though I did fly TK in between and also as a courtesy credited the flights to TK since they were kind enough to match me :)

Who did you status match from? I'm trying to match from AC but i'm getting no response. As i've got my final AC flight of the year coming up in a couple of weeks I'll try and credit to TK and see if that gets them to budge?!?

Who did you status match from? I'm trying to match from AC but i'm getting no response. As i've got my final AC flight of the year coming up in a couple of weeks I'll try and credit to TK and see if that gets them to budge?!?


They only check the emails once in a few weeks so one just has to wait. I sent in cards and statements from Finnair and SAS

Yet another example of succesful match to TKG - this time from EBG
Sent initial request on 20th Oct., followed up on 1st Nov and received a confirmation email from Miles&Smiles on 8th Nov telling me the happy story of being awarded TK Elite status. So gold in *A for at least 2 years.

And the welcome kit arrived yesterday. Card and two luggage tags. Without any miles credited to TK.

And the welcome kit arrived yesterday. Card and two luggage tags. Without any miles credited to TK.

And what was the secret as ive sent 2 emails now as follow ups and have received nothing by way of confirmation of reciept, nevermind confirmation of status match!

Why offer something if you're going to be so slow and seemingly disinterested in following up on it?!? :confused:

And what was the secret as ive sent 2 emails now as follow ups and have received nothing by way of confirmation of reciept, nevermind confirmation of status match!

Why offer something if you're going to be so slow and seemingly disinterested in following up on it?!? :confused:

Be patient, it will happen. Did you check your status on the TK site?

And what was the secret as ive sent 2 emails now as follow ups and have received nothing by way of confirmation of reciept, nevermind confirmation of status match!

Why offer something if you're going to be so slow and seemingly disinterested in following up on it?!? :confused:

There's no indication that TK is no longer status matching so persevere. I got matched a few months ago from Aeroplan though it required the following:

1. Initial email from me with attached proof (card photo and statement).
2. TK thanking me for my email and asking for card photo and statement.
3. Confused, reply to TK resending card photo and statement.
4. TK thanking me for my email and asking for card photo and statement.
5. Starting to wonder if TK simply has a trained monkey typing canned answers for them, I reply to TK again sending card photo and statement.
6. Status-matched.

Sure, it was frustrating but I was going to follow this through as I vowed to stop flying AC this year!

There's no indication that TK is no longer status matching so persevere. I got matched a few months ago from Aeroplan though it required the following:

1. Initial email from me with attached proof (card photo and statement).
2. TK thanking me for my email and asking for card photo and statement.
3. Confused, reply to TK resending card photo and statement.
4. TK thanking me for my email and asking for card photo and statement.
5. Starting to wonder if TK simply has a trained monkey typing canned answers for them, I reply to TK again sending card photo and statement.
6. Status-matched.

Sure, it was frustrating but I was going to follow this through as I vowed to stop flying AC this year!

Sounds like we're in the same boat when it comes to moving away from Air Monopoly, and of course the frustration of dealing with the flying xxx!

That said, did you just email the customermiles or miles&smiles address as i've sent to both and have got no joy...even from a trained monkey!

Someone meantioned status matching through the Istanbul airport? I am transfering through the airport next month and would like to do this. Is this desk in the international area and do I have to exit the area to get to it. I would rather not pay for the visa as for canadians it is 60 bucks! Where is this desk?

Status match requested Oct 15 with scan and statement. No response. Follow up Nov 1. A few days later noticed that my account was updated. Received a welcome mail Nov 7. Received card and luggage tags today without having credited my account ^ Pretty quick turn around even though communication was minimal.

re sent scans and everything else yesterday 25 Nov and ironically received an Account Status update email this morning showing ZERO activity so at least they've got my email address on file..LOL!

Now we wait to see how long the infamous Welcome Letter takes....watch this space!

Status match requested Oct 15 with scan and statement. No response. Follow up Nov 1. A few days later noticed that my account was updated. Received a welcome mail Nov 7. Received card and luggage tags today without having credited my account ^ Pretty quick turn around even though communication was minimal.

cardesigner2000, thanks for sharing the good news. I am still waiting on my card as well. What city or state did you receive the card and luggage tags in? Just curious to know. Thanks and Safe Travels

For my status match, I had tried to apply for the program but they said that my details were already filled? I had already sent the request to THY two weeks ago, but still no reply. Because of me not being able to give a membership number along with my email? (have BA GOLD) :confused:

Try, but don't expect success. I sent them both my Skywards Gold and Flying Blue Gold cards initially and they declined the first time. I re-sent the note without the Skywards card and it was approved.

Having problems sending in my Scans. Did EK and QR, 5 times now and they keep asking me to send my pics to customermiles@thy.com (which I have been doing for 5+ weeks now)

What format should I use? I've tried PDF, JPG and they dont seem to receive it.

This time I'll do QR alone and see how it goes.

I sent status match email as UA1K on 11/20/2012.
I noticed today 11/28/2012 that my status is now Elite ^
It's valid until 11/30/2014 :)
I haven't received any emails from TK since I sent the status match email...

applied 3 days ago checked today and i am elite on turkish air. applied nov 25 and fabulous.....

I sent status match email as UA1K on 11/20/2012.
I noticed today 11/28/2012 that my status is now Elite ^
It's valid until 11/30/2014 :)
I haven't received any emails from TK since I sent the status match email...

Exactly the same happened to me with the exception that I sent my status match email as TAM*G on 11/17/2012.

The ELITE status is also valid until 11/20/2014 ! :p

Sent mail on 16/11 matched on 29/11 GREAT

Sent mail on 16/11 matched on 29/11 GREAT

Congratulations on your new status ^

Someone meantioned status matching through the Istanbul airport? I am transfering through the airport next month and would like to do this. Is this desk in the international area and do I have to exit the area to get to it. I would rather not pay for the visa as for canadians it is 60 bucks! Where is this desk?

I mentioned that you can get your card printed AFTER immigration, but didn't say anything of doing a status match there. But, if someone (somehow) has had success on the latter at IST too, please let us know!

After 3 attempts to request a status match I just received an email from TK requesting that i submit the same information I already have the previous 3 times, namely copies of my current AC Elite (*G) card and statement :mad:

If the overall benefits here weren't as worthwhile as I feel they are I would tell them to shove it!

I finally got matched yesterday after around 9 requests :)

I am not sure I see the rationale as a UA 1K matching to a *A program. Most of my flying is UA. If I fly on TK occasionally it is in C, as a *G. Will I see any benefits then of being elite on TK?

I am not sure I see the rationale as a UA 1K matching to a *A program. Most of my flying is UA. If I fly on TK occasionally it is in C, as a *G. Will I see any benefits then of being elite on TK?

TK *G is valid for 2 yrs which gives you more time to requalifiy with them or someone else in the meantime! Seems a 'no brainer'

If you gain 37,500 miles in two years to retain your elite status, would it last for another year, or another two years?

TK *G is valid for 2 yrs which gives you more time to requalifiy with them or someone else in the meantime! Seems a 'no brainer'

I see. Are these status matches once in a lifetime?

I am not sure I see the rationale as a UA 1K matching to a *A program. Most of my flying is UA. If I fly on TK occasionally it is in C, as a *G. Will I see any benefits then of being elite on TK?

Since TK is not based in the USA you can use *A lounges (including UA) in the USA for free when flying domestically. The match gets you a free lounge pass for the duration. Just show your nonUA, nonUS *G card (NH, AC, TK, TG, etc). That has been tempting me for a while.

Since TK is not based in the USA you can use *A lounges (including UA) in the USA for free when flying domestically. The match gets you a free lounge pass for the duration. Just show your nonUA, nonUS *G card (NH, AC, TK, TG, etc). That has been tempting me for a while.
You mean if I am flying LAX-ORD on UA with a UA BP, I can enter the RCC with my TK *G card?

If you gain 37,500 miles in two years to retain your elite status, would it last for another year, or another two years?

two years

You mean if I am flying LAX-ORD on UA with a UA BP, I can enter the RCC with my TK *G card?

yes you can ;)

yes you can ;)

G_G : Do you know if is there any similar STATUS MATCH scheme to match to any ONEWORLD program?

Elsewhere (SkyTeam ? ) ?

ThanX

G_G : Do you know if is there any similar STATUS MATCH scheme to match to any ONEWORLD program?

Elsewhere (SkyTeam ? ) ?

ThanX

Best to check in the SkyTeam and Oneworld fora ;)

You mean if I am flying LAX-ORD on UA with a UA BP, I can enter the RCC with my TK *G card?

Yes

Yes


I used my TK*G card to get into UA lounges in SEA and DEN yesterday (for domestic flights); it took a bit more time than just sliding the card (it wasn't recognized by their system), but after they typed in the FF number I was let in.

Has anyone been matched by Turkish based on UA 1K or AA EXP status? I still have not received a response and have resent the information at least three times over the past five weeks.

I may just phone them.....

Has anyone been matched by Turkish based on UA 1K or AA EXP status? I still have not received a response and have resent the information at least three times over the past five weeks.

I may just phone them.....

I sent in UA1K info either in late October or early November, and three days later got the email regarding TK elite status. That was corroborated by picking up my TK *G elite card at IST two weeks ago.

What exactly did you send them?

I sent an email to customermiles@thy.com requesting a status match

with three pdfs:
1. My UA statement
2. scan of my UA 1K card
3. scan of my AA EXP card

entrada, why not just send one email with UA stuff, and then should the need arise, one with AA info? I sent in 1 and 2 of what you listed, plus said "I like TK, and I'll be flying them soon...," (doubt that has any effect).

In other news, I received my card in the mail, along with baggage tags. A month and a half after getting matched.

one thing to note people when i did my status match i never heard from them. I just signed into miles and smiles and found a message with my new status! please pass this on

one thing to note people when i did my status match i never heard from them. I just signed into miles and smiles and found a message with my new status! please pass this on

and because of this fact, I now check my account at least twice daily to see if the TK status match fairy has paid a visit too :D

although i will mention that i DID get an email from TK requesting me to send them my credentials for the match (which i had done 3 times previous with no response) so they know I've requested it, and they have all the details so its just a case of them clicking a few buttons

Somehow on this board i found 2 email addys to send to and i sent to both. Bet one works and the other takes time because they have to forward it.

I tried a few months ago, got a confusing email back but no match, and was too lazy/busy to follow up.

Inspired by the advice here, I emailed customermiles@thy.com yesterday with my UA 1K card, AA EXP card, UA statement all on one scanned PDF page. For good measure I also included two upcoming TK itineraries as I'll be spending time in Turkey. This morning I received this email:

We Have received your e-mail message dated 04.12.2012

In order to evaluate your request about Gold membership status match, we would like you to send the copy of your Gold memberhsip card together with the copy of your membership statement to following e-mail adress; customermiles@thy.com
Thank you for choosing Turkish Airlines on your flights.
Kind Regards,

TURKISH AIRLINES INC.
CUSTOMER RELATIONS MANAGEMENT

However, following the advice here I logged into my Mile & Smiles account and it displays https://www4.thy.com/tkmiles/jsp/img/EC.png (picture of an Elite card with *G logo).

Under card "You Activity" it shows "CARD UPGRADED" on 5-December. Under "Card Renewal" is shows expiration of two year period as 31-December-2014. So it looks like I was matched to Elite, not Elite+ (is that what I should have expected?)

Should I consider myself done despite the email I received? Can anyone confirm that once it shows like this that I am set?

Can I go to the desk at IST armed with the printouts+passport and get a physical card?

24-hour turn around is pretty impressive to me.

EDIT: Looks like it solved itself... Just got this email today Dec 7.

Referring to your e-mail message dated 04.12./2012 , Elite card status match has been provided and your membership has been updated as '' Elite Card '' level.
We would like to be honoured to see you as an Elite member for your future flights by Turkish Airlines.
Kind Regards,
TURKISH AIRLINES INC.
CUSTOMER RELATIONS MANAGEMENT

I mentioned that you can get your card printed AFTER immigration, but didn't say anything of doing a status match there. But, if someone (somehow) has had success on the latter at IST too, please let us know!

I'll be in IST soon but have never flown thru there before. Can you give me more detail on how to find the desk? I have my status matched but want to pick up a card since I'll be there. Thanks.