Originally Posted by
PhilUSA
Hi,
It looks like I am going to be doing some more flying again. Mainly on Lufthansa/ Star (where I am a member already), but also on oneworld. Which FF Program on oneworld should I join, if my goal is to collect some miles on flying, but mostly from 'on the ground promotions'? I am not interested in gaining status, just miles for future reward flights. AY Finnair Plus or BA Executive Club?
I am based in Germany, but also have a US address I could use.
I know this is sort of a 'Newbie' question and the answer is probably BA Executive Club, but may be you can help me with the decision.
Many thanks,
Phil
PS: My employer is a Finnish company - that's why I am looking into Finnair Plus.
Actually, if awards are important I would go for AAdvantage
Here are a few data points regarding AY and BA, assuming you are not going to gain status.
- AY points expire in 3 years, unless you go for Platinum. BA points do not expire if there is activity in the account.
- BA has huge surcharges (YQ) for award tickets, especially in Y. AY surcharges are smaller, AFAIK (but not insignificant).
- AY is kilometer based, BA uses miles.
- AY hates you, If you are flying in discount economy. Most of the earnings will be in 25%-50% range (with a few strange exceptions).
- I have no idea how on the ground promotions would work, considering you are based in Germany. Chase has had pretty crazy CC offers in US for BA, though. Finnair offers a Diners Club in Finland which gives 2pts/EUR spent.
[EDIT] If you
are going to gain status, then BA becomes a much better option with its 100% tier bonus.