Maintaining elite status, for sure. Especially if you are on the bubble.

I did a mileage run in February. AA had a fare to Europe for $299.00 USD. In addition they were offering bonus mileage to European gateways. The bonus alone was worth 12,500 miles. As Platinum, I received a 100% mileage bonus. When it was all said and done, I had gained about 32,000 miles. I went to Zurich........and it was wonderful. The qualifying miles were a terrific little push toward another year at Platinum.

As was mentioned earlier, the difference is night and day for elite/non-elite.

Anytime I can go overseas for less than $300.00 on my airline of choice, I will.