Originally Posted by
Zorak
Welcome to FT!
There really isn't. Prepare to do a lot of reading
That, and asking questions, or searching past threads (and depending what you're looking for, FT search sucks -- often you can get better results by doing a Google search for "site:flyertalk.com" plus your search terms).
There is a hierarchy of fare classes within each cabin. If you just search for flights on the Delta site you could theoretically end up with any of the fare classes, depending what flights you select. If you are generally booking the cheapest flights, nothing wrong with that, but will likely be one of the lower fare classes so will put you lower down the priority list for complimentary upgrades.
Here by "upgrade" I assume you mean, achieving higher status. Status is earned by MQMs (and MQDs, but you will have the AMEX $25k waiver). Earning status faster means earning MQMs faster. Earning MQMs faster means flying more, and/or spending more on DL-branded AMEXes. If you will max out one card you could consider getting the Reserve card, and also business versions of the cards. Some people have all 4 and max out the MQM bonuses.
Thank you for your comments.
In a way everyone on this forum is "competing" on how to upgrade and beat each other out of the seats. That kind of explains why there isn't a simple how to guide. It seems the airlines are always changing so that makes it more difficult as well.
Is there a link or thread that breaks down each fare class level. One that explains if A is better then B and so on. I have always just done the normal search and then booked the main cabin selection. I never do the basic economy because I always want to chose my seat. It sounds like there is a better way to do things though?
As far as the ranking up the medallion status it seems like the simple answer is just fly more and max out the CC bonus.
I am going to be flying to Vegas in December and its silly but it seems like its a tough choice to fly DL and have 2 flights and cost $40 more or take a direct with Alaska and save 4 hours of time and $40. On the other hand that is more miles that could lead to better upgrades on longer flights.