Originally Posted by
jeffcarp
Thanks. Is there a difference between DL, AA and UA in terms of a credit card that I could obtain and get lounge access starting with my first trip (even for a per-use fee) while I'm building status the first year? I'll be doing 4x per year for a 10 year commitment. Would a million miles get me any status with any of the three even though I'd never hit top-tier in any single year? I've got 200k lifetime with AA now. Nothing close to that on UA or DL.
As for what I value for the coach product, the only thing I really value is a realistic opportunity to get an upgraded coach seat with more leg room as a lower tier frequent flyer. Not anticipating business or first upgrades.
What airlines will you use to fly to India?
Its generally only USA airlines that have E+/MCE as a variation (more leg room) of economy.
Premium Economy PE sold by many airlines (including AA now on some aircraft) is a different class, just like business & first. You will not get free upgrades Y to PE.
With non USA based airlines always expect to travel in the class you buy for $$$. Non USA based airlines do not have the (often free) upgrade mentality(entitlement) of USA airlines.