Originally Posted by
kojiro
Whether you are a JGC or not, Sapphires earn the same number of upgrade points. This is true of Diamonds, too.
But when you collect over 80000 fly-on points, this is where JGC status matters, because 80000 will qualify you to be a JGC Premier (JGP) if you are a JGC.
If you are not a JGC, even with 80000 fly-on points you are still a plain Sapphire and your upgrade points will be 26. If you are a JGC, 80000 fly-on points will make you a JGP, and your upgrade points will jump to 30 at this point. The four point difference you have heard about may be referring to this difference.
http://www.jal.co.jp/en/jmb/new_rule/new_flyon.html
kojiro
Thank you, this is helpful. I just got a written response from JAL Mileage Bank that supports your assertion. What provoked my initial thinking was also due to the fact ANA Super Flyers receive 4 additional upgrade points regardless of their tier status.
Nonetheless, it is still easier to upgrade from Business to First on long-haul routes with JAL than it is with ANA, I think that's what I am moving to after my primary FFP has been recently absorbed (will soon disappear) by Lufthansa.