Case study on the importance of being part of mileage programs (even without tier status or being a card holder).

I am a COPA and United member, both denoted on my profile. Last time I flew Star Alliance, I got a free upgrade on a USA transcontinental flight from Basic Economy to Business. So Star Alliance members are doing great in my book! So here's what happened today...

The COPA call center representative went above and beyond by allowing me to change my COPA airline ticket after completing the first half of my itinerary and helped me to add a stop over in Panama City (up to seven days, I chose three days) because I was a "loyal customer."

Here is what it looks like in USD--

My original ticket was $695.30.

I then paid $50.00 to change my itinerary in addition to $188.00 for the difference in the fare.

My new ticket price retails at $1,579.85.

In this case, I saved some money! $646.55 savings.

Conclusion: Sign up for the loyalty program even if you do not have the card or hold tier status.