Originally Posted by
SPN Lifer
Upon greater reflection, it makes eminent sense.
That is, if far more people fly Delta Airlines (DL) than stay at Marriott hotels. That is certainly the case with the Ritz-Carlton brand. Or if people value DL credit card benefits, e.g., lounge access, more than Brilliant AmEx benefits, e.g., Platinum Elite status, free breakfast, etc.
It’s interesting to compare. The Amex Platinum offers better delta lounge access than Delta Diamond does. At the same time, airline cards tend to only augment status whereas hotel cards grant it outright. I think the nuance there is pretty important. Someone with a Delta Reserve and no status is not going to beat out a frequent Delta flyer with even bottom tier status for upgrades. However, it is very plausible that a Marriott Brilliant holder with no status beyond what is granted on the card will best out true Marriott loyals for upgrades.
Truly Bonvoyed.