Originally Posted by
fikio
As far as I can tell to qualify for various elite statuses, all the travel has to occur in 1 calendar year. Is there any way I can make something of these miles I will be accruing? I think this is the goal, right, I want to try to get some kind of elite status in a FF program?
Yes, one calendar year.
Elite status is one possible goal.
However, if you are simply looking to fly one premium class trip per year, you can accomplish your goals with only credit card signup bonuses. For example, right now, sign up for the two AA credit cards and you'll have 150k+ miles, plenty to ride in business/first class. You could probably do something similar 3 or 4 times with the bonuses out there now. When you can use points to go directly to the front of the plane, elite status matters much less.
But you shouldn't ignore the possibility for elite status. If you're flying 15k miles on Turkish, that will get you well on the way to elite status in Star Alliance. If you can make it to 25k this year, you'll have Premier status. The major perk is unlimited space available upgrades on domestic flights and nearly guaranteed Economy Plus seating on all flights. Makes flying much, much more pleasant.
Take some time to learn about United's Mileage Plus. Also, on the United site, there is a list of which fare classes on Turkish will earn credit in Mileage Plus (most will).