...a quick, relatively inexpensive way of achieving AAdvantage Platinum elite status.
Indeed. In fact, my very first MHD was done for this very purpose. (For details of my first 3 MHDs, including an "aborted" one, see
Mexican Hat Dance Club.) Very effective, very inexpensive, very quick way to
oneworld sapphire status, complete with lounge access (except in the US) and priority everything, as well as extremely high probability of upgrades
from any fare, that you can buy if you run out. Even if you buy the upgrades, it usually works out to less than paying an AC "upgradeable" fare and using a "free" upgrade certificate.
You have 90 days, starting on the 1st or 16th of any month, to accumulate 10K points. But shades of Canada, you only get ½ point per mile on
any discounted fare, and 1 point for full Y fares. But you also get COS bonuses for J and F class, 25% and 50%, so travelling or at least ticketing in F reduces the mileage requirement to 6667 miles, while J tickets would require 8000 miles.
Ken, why did you say you'd buy it in F and fly in J?
Because AA (and other US carriers) have stopped offering F class service on some routes. You could buy a J class ticket, but you'd only get 25% COS bonus. If you buy an F class ticket you get a 50% COS bonus, but because there is no distinction between F and J on the plane, the F fare is typically only 1 or 2 dollars more than J class. Therefore you get a 25% Q-mile bonus for 2$.
[This message has been edited by Ken hAAmer (edited 03-04-2001).]