Especially with LPs and a reduction of complementary upgrades due to more aggressive pricing, I think that what status to pursue has come down to one’s facts and circumstances.
Originally Posted by
FlyFreakquently
I think that’s a great strategy. I’m in a somewhat similar boat. At 115k LPs so far and will see where I end up with about 2 weeks to go in the cycle. If I’m somewhat close to 175k, I’ll book a hotel stay or two to hit this mark, but I don’t see much value in pursuing EXP and like you, plan on chasing BA status. I’ll be able to use the money I save not going for EXP to achieve BA Silver rather easily, which will not only grant me access to Flagship Lounges (huge, as LAX is a home airport and I pass through DFW quite frequently), but it will also allow me to drop the Exec Mastercard and save $595.
It totally makes sense to go for BAEC Gold or Silver for the lounge access etc. as you’d still get MCE at booking and can buy upgrades as needed. Depending on your flying, I’d consider a TP run or booking advantageous fare classes.
Where there’s downside “exposure” is if you’re flying on AA often as EP IROPS treatment is likely much better than BA Gold or Silver (same probably applies to PPRO). I’ve done the math and would likely have made GGL if crediting BEAC, but I put in 100-120 segments a year on AA (mostly domestic) and value what I’ll call the EP-only benefits (e.g., backed up on the next flight out or the first flight the following morning).