There are fewer surcharges on reward flights, but status in US-based programs generally doesn't provide automatic and free access to airlines' lounges. By contrast, if I allocate my CO flights to Aeroplan (as well as what is likely to be an upcoming United flight to Asia in J), I have a decent chance of reaching elite status with Aeroplan (which would get me lounge access as well as other perks). However, any Virgin flights I did would result in "orphan points" and wasted status-earning opportunities. Moreover, CO at least (and perhaps other US carriers) have lifetime elite status.

Would getting a status match now with CO on the basis of BAEC Silver get me much more than what I'm going to be getting for the next year via FB Gold? Should I wait until later in 2009 and then ask for a status match on the basis of FB Silver (with the hope that the status match would extend through 2010)?