Originally Posted by
mersk862
That's the disheartening part for me. I don't mind reciprocal upgrades between NW and DL since it benefits a NW flyer on DL and vice-versa. FB elites on the other hand get upgrades on DL/NW metal, while DL/NW elites sit in the back on AF/KL flights. Doesn't seem right at all to me. They get benefits while DL/NW elites get squat.
Well there is a reciprocality in benefits in Europe on AF/KL - you get lounge access, extra baggage allowance and preboarding.
The main benefit of being an elite member in Europe is the access to lounges, upgrades are not included as the aircraft have adjustible curtains to tailor to the demand.
There's also quite a strong rumor/feeling that Skymiles will not operate in Europe next year and all European members will be integrated into Flying Blue (like the current WP-FB agreement) and that all North American Flying Blue members will become Skymiles members.