mad_atta, thanks, the MX program i've just found out in terms of tier qualification is rougher than I expected, I qualfied as MX *G in Sep 02 with 50k within 12 months, hit my 50k miles for the subsequent year by Jul 03, now it looks like they've extended my MX *G till Jul 04.. if I pooled miles into another program until Sept, my status would have been MX *G till Sept 04, not a big issue but definitely worth considering.

On the flip side, i've managed to redeem awards (with a need for a little bit of flexibility) when i've wanted to.

I've also omitted some other useful points, such as the following:

- tier benefits as an elite on UA if flying UA metal (RG also has similar tier benefits when flying Varig)
- healthy biz and first class 200% and 300% on most *A airlines when accruing to LH
- SK does have the benefit of being able to accrue QF mileage to it. Would have been great if I investigated that further when AN was still around.
- TG ROP isn't such a bad program, some reasonable priced awards plus the opportunity to join up two travellers on the same award and getting a discount.

Furthermore, as you are based in SYD, with AMEX Ascent, you can now earn $1 for 1 TG ROP mile... not such a bad deal!!

Now we have 2 choices in *A programs down under - Air NZ and Thai Airways! hoo ray!!

mad_atta, do you want to chat further over a crownie? My shout!

[This message has been edited by kawoh (edited 07-21-2003).]