Originally Posted by
AeoNKiNG
I am normally a Delta flyer but have been thinking about switching to Star Alliance. I am not sure exactly how this program works though.
I have signed up for US Airways and United preferred programs. If I fly on US Airways until I get their silver status, will my United account automatically be bumped up to the equivalent silver status? Or will I just be awarded "star alliance silver" which is something different than the United silver?
Also, do I need to sign up for a Star Alliance account or do I just need accounts for the airlines that I plan to fly such as US Airways and United?
Thanks in advance.
Most alliance frequent flyer programs work in the same way. So generally speaking, whatever you experence with Delta (as part of skyteam) you are likely to experience as part of star alliance.
With your delta program you build and maintain stauts on Delta, which can then be used for benefits on other skyteam airlines (but you get the MOST benefits on Delta).
Same applies with star alliance, or oneworld. The carrier you achieve status with is likely to give you the most benefits (those which are applicable to their members only), but there are shared alliance benefits such as priority check-in, baggage and lounge access.
Some of the exclusive benefits for the airline you accrued status with might include upgrades, upgrade certificates, bonus miles, or access to preferred seating.
Once you get status with one airline they send you a new card which will have a silver or gold logo. This identifies you to other alliance member airlines.