Hello again! We’re continuing to monitor your posts – thanks for the feedback! – and wanted to address a couple questions that have come up in the last week or so. Here goes:

When do I start qualifying for new status? Will my MQMs from this year count toward 2010 status? You can begin earning your way toward 2010 status NOW, and 2010 benefits will be implemented in the spring of next year. Rollover MQMs from 2009 will be deposited into your account in early 2010 to add to your 2010 MQM balance for 2011 qualification. Those who earn at least 125,000 MQMs in 2009 will be recognized as Diamonds as soon as the program begins in spring 2010.

Gifting status – when and what? As a benefit of Medallion membership in the new SkyMiles program, Platinum and Diamond members will be able to gift status in 2010. Platinum members may gift Silver status, while Diamonds may gift Gold. Gifting status is one of our Choice Benefits – as you know, Platinums can choose one benefit from our list; Diamonds can choose two.

Award availability and benefits for Silvers and Golds. Several of you have commented that Silvers and Golds are “getting lost in the shuffle.” Yes, we’re excited about Platinum and Diamond status – but we’ve maintained all of the benefits that Silvers and Golds enjoyed pre-integration. And, we’ve introduced rollover MQMs for all SkyMiles members, which will hopefully make it easier for many to reach even higher status. As far as Award redemption, we currently do determine availability in Coach based on respective elite status, and our plan is to continue in 2010.

Thanks!