Originally Posted by
QRC3288
Yes, definitely can.
However, I'm not sure I could retain DM too. I think that's a stretch for me. Your friend / fellow poster is extreme! I put too much random business to non-alliance airlines (EK, Alaska / JetBlue in the US), as well as random star alliance (SQ, some BR, LH and ANA) and skyteam (Delta in the US a few times a year, and Air France once or twice a year) flights. I'd essentially have to end this free wheeling approach to buying my travel and really focus harder on OW only.
Except for CX I'm not very loyal to any airline, just what gets me around and has a good product. I avoid AA when I can and absolutely refuse to fly UA under any circumstances.
I am probably not as much of a frequent flyer as you - but everytime I go to the Wing or Pier F lounge, I have no problems getting a seat for 3 (or 4).
Granted my last longhaul to Europe was last Easter!
But otherwise it is mostly regional in the afternoons - and never had a problem there (mainly fly leisure times)