Hey all, wanted to get some direction on what my approach should be for the upcoming year. I'll be travelling more for work, though how much is still not clear, and will probably travel more with the Family as well now that my (16MO) daughter is more mobile. I want to maximize my earning from business flying while making that time as enjoyable as I can given the circumstances. This past year I've been flying AA whenever possible, and routing myself through CLT or DFW to get access to Centurion Lounges with the Amex Plat, I should hit AA Gold by January 2023, mostly using the Shopping Portal to buy things I was already going to buy. I'm open to changing up my approach if there's a big upside in doing so, and am open to playing the CC game to accelerate things.
1. What is most important to you in a frequent flyer program (FFP)?
Upgrades and lounge access would be a big plus on Business Travel. On Family Vacation travel Lounge Access, Baggage allowances, and good domestic awards access would take precedence.
2. How many miles do you usually fly each year? How many flights/sectors?
Still figuring out what the upcoming year looks like, but I expect to fly about twice a month for work and around 5 times for personal trips. All flights domestic.
3. What fare class do you usually buy?
Economy for business travel, Economy/Premium Economy for personal trips.
4. Are you able to choose your airlines and/or class of service? Do you travel for work and/or pleasure?
Able to choose my airline for work without issue as long as the pricing is comparable to other options. Work travel will be ramping up for 2023, not sure how much yet.
5. Which routes do you fly most often?
All domestic. ORD > STL, ORD > SAT, and ORD > CHA/BNA are common routes for work. ORD > PHL/EWR is possible for a vacation as well.
6. What is your home airport?
Live in Chicago South Suburbs and ORD and MDW are the same drive time. Prefer ORD, especially during the winter.
7. Do you have status in any FFP? What is it? How miles do you have banked in each FFP, if any?
Tentative AA Gold, Hilton Diamond, AAdvantage ~32k, Rapid Rewards ~30k, Amex MR ~230k
8. What are your preferred airlines, if any?
Have had good luck in the past with AA and SWA, not married to either if there's a better carrier.