"We know many of you travel frequently, but to reinforce what you already know..."
[list=1][*]It's always in your best interest to join an airline's frequent flyer program (assuming, of course, you actually intend to use that carrier's services). It only takes a few minutes, and doesn't cost you anything (for U.S. members; things may be different worldwide).[*]All frequent flyers receive some benefits. The most obvious one is frequent flyer miles; these are a currency that can be redeemed for things you want. You can choose not to receive them by not participating, but you are paying for them regardless. Better they should end up in your pocket than mileage heaven. If you really aren't going to use them, you may be able to donate them to a favorite charity.[*]Always provide your frequent flyer number when you purchase air travel, preferably when you make the initial reservation. Make sure this number appears on your boarding pass(es). If not, have the gate agent add it to your record.[*]Frequent flyer program membership helps you a little when things go well, and helps you a lot when things go poorly. I can't stress this enough. Unless you are holding a First Class ticket, if your flight is canceled, frequent flyer membership is what will make the difference between a mildly unpleasant experience and a truly hellish one. As a member, even if you have never flown the airline before, you will come ahead of everyone else who never joined the program--no matter how often they fly, no matter how much they spend on air travel.[*]Your biggest "gain" comes when you achieve the lowest level of elite status. For most airlines, this means flying 25,000 miles in a calendar year. Each tier above that suffers from "diminishing returns."[*]Unless you fly a lot (well over 100,000 miles a year), it is rarely in your best interest to use frequent flyer miles for "free" tickets. Exception: if you have to travel on short notice (e.g. death of a close relative), or can't satisfy a Saturday night stayover requirement.[*]Upgrades make a huge difference in the international travel experience.[/list=a]

Why "Platinum?" If you travel with someone else, some of your elite benefits may extend to your companion. You may receive some very cool targeted offers. You may have an opportunity to influence airline policy. You'll receive our respect and admiration. It might even help you get laid. But the best benefit of all: if your "favorite" airline really pisses you off, you should be able to weasel comparable status from a competitor that wants to retain your business!


[This message has been edited by EPS (edited 02-21-2001).]