I guess they are getting a lot of email/phone calls regarding things that I thought were obvious. They sent out this email today:
Thank you for your interest in ConnectMiles, the new loyalty program from Copa Airlines. Part of getting ready for our program launch in July 2015 is keeping future members up to date and informed. For this reason, we want to provide clear answers to two of our most frequently asked questions:
What will happen to my existing MileagePlus balance?
Answer: Copa Airlines starting its own loyalty program will not affect your existing MileagePlus balance or status in any way. MileagePlus will remain a strong loyalty program. The existing balances that you have can be used for award travel on Copa Airlines and any other Star Alliance carrier. It was very important to both United and Copa Airlines, that customers did not lose their accrued value as a result of the Copa Airlines’ loyalty program launch.
What will happen to the status I have earned in MileagePlus?
Answer: As previously noted, Copa Airlines starting its own loyalty program will not impact your MileagePlus status. Therefore, MileagePlus Premier members will receive either Star Alliance Silver or Gold benefits.
At the same time, Copa Airlines will recognize customers’ previous travels and commitment to Copa Airlines with a status offer that will be similar to what you have previously earned in MileagePlus. Going forward, it becomes your choice which program you wish to concentrate your efforts to retain or grow your status. Both ConnectMiles and MileagePlus will offer unique status benefits to their program members.
Personally, I love flying Copa. I have even been paying for my regular trips between SJO and MDE, thanks to JohhnyColombia enlightening me to choose Panama as the page I use for pricing. Even UA has been offering low prices on the route at the last page of claiming an award, giving me the chance to earn miles there while I wait for ConnectMiles to start.
I am still 100% on CPUs for my USA trips, and I have been getting them on my trips both ways between SJO and MDE, too. Hoping that and my USA trips get me converted to Presidential Platinum.