Originally Posted by
irfan23
I'd think seriously about Delta. They use JFK and LGA as major hubs, which would allow you to fly virtually anywhere domestically non-stop, and you'd have a million options for your DTW trip. Also, they offer great coverage to Europe both directly on DL and through their Skyteam partners like KLM, Air France, and Alitalia.
They also offer mileage bonus for even their lowest-tier elite flyers (Silver Medallion) which allows you to build miles quickly. The one downside is that if you cared about upgrades, you might be out of luck given that NYC has a lot of Delta elite flyers, but that doesn't sound like your concern.
As for Asia, Delta does daily non-stops to Japan, China, Korea, and is partners with Korean Airlines and Vietnam Airlines.
I have no idea what their CC sign-up promo is right now, but would encourage you to think long-term. A big bonus up-front is obviously nice but, to reach your goals, you are going to be tied to your airline FF program for some time to come.
Best of luck.
My specific goal right now is China. And in comparing Delta with CO (since I have to decide what to do with my AMEX MR points before 9/30) - I concluded that CO is better in terms in terms of China. CO also has slightly more flight coverage to Europe - but Delta has plenty. In fact - my last 2 trips to Europe (France and Germany) were reward tickets from CO on Delta flights (when CO and Delta were partners). CO is better in terms of Australia and most of South America. Overall - unless I read something persuasive to the contrary - I have decided to move my MR points to CO before 9/30.
FWIW - there is no international service from JAX. I usually hub through a New York airport or Atlanta when I fly out of the US. Robyn