Originally Posted by Zeehe

Motivation:
For the status I am looking for the *G program where I can still have SOME use of the miles instead of throwing them away (e.g. intra-European awards or an overpriced shop like LH's worldshop).
I can't obtain EBG right now or maintain LH SEN so I'm looking for alternatives. I will however keep my LH/SK CCs and continue collecting extra/award miles with LH and SK, maybe even some flights after (re-)qualification. They both have more or less reasonable intra-European awards (prices and availability).



For the status I am thinking about going for Asiana Diamond. I am quite certain that I can maintain the status as 40K in two years seems quite manageable. I'd hit Diamond within a year if I choose my re-qualification period wisely. Advantages: 40K miles closer to lifetime *G, about three years of status. Can miss one (or more) year(s) on my way to lifetime status. Reliable program, no drastic changes expected. Allows uneven distribution of flights amongst two years (e.g. crediting 30k one year, 10k the other).

Disadvantages could be: I will most likely not fly Asiana in the near future. Cheap LH fares earn nothing, but can be avoided, so the latter is not a big reason.

Open questions: I don't know anything about intra-European awards (availability, earn/burn rate, taxes) and couldn't yet find out about it (can't be seen without enough miles in the account or I am blind). I will most likely not fly Asiana in the near future. Cheap LH fares earn nothing, but can be avoided, so the latter is not a big reason.



Alternatives could be Aegean Gold, it looks like three years of status right now as well. However program changes are rather likely in the near future (e.g. due to different thresholds, merger with Olympic, one year status period instead of the current three years good-will). Not possible to credit JK flights (big No Go in *A). Most SK classes earn nothing, but can be avoided.

Open questions: YQ/taxes amount for intra-European awards, availability, not sure what to think of earn/burn rate.


Last but not least the new JK program gives Gold based on > 30 *A segments per year.
Advantage: 1 year closer to lifetime *G (requires ten consecutive years). Probably easiest criteria ever for intra-European flying.
Disadvantage: Very unreliable carrier. Customer service quasi non-existent. Earn/burn rates dreadful, hence pretty much losing whatever I credit there. However could only credit the intra-European segments and put the intercontinental ones on LH or SK.

Opinions are highly appreciated! Also if someone can help with the open questions regarding awards on A3 miles and Asiana I'd be greatful. Thank you in advance.