I was just on a flight with someone last week who told me Amex set him up with some elite status on some airlines because he asked.
After a few drinks and an hour into the flight I bought this back up. He said he got elite status on Delta and Continental and flying about 10-15 times a year, but not enough to make the cut with the airlines.
I know there are a few perks that I use, like the lounge access (now US Air) and Hertz #1 Club Gold, but they do this for a few other car places as well, but mainly use Hertz.
Ideally would be great to have some connect with US Air or Marriott to get their higher status, but I guess thats my fault for not flying/staying at their preferred vendors
