Originally Posted by rw2841
If you don't mind backtracking through MSP or DTW to go to Europe, NWA/KLM is probably your best choice. NWA still flies into Austin via DTW and MSP with full size jets. It's not the best schedule in the world, but they can get you there with a FC cabin and good Plat upgrade prospects.
Robin
NW domestic upgrades for elites are great--I've only flown in Cattle Class a couple of times since I made silver, quite a few years ago.
Internationally, NW is a different story. B class mileage upgrades are pretty hard to get, and waitlisting is not offered. I generally buy B fares LAX-Europe, and about half the time I snag an upgrade--usually about 48 hours before the flight.
You can't join KLM's program with a US address--they'll just put you in NW's program.
If you fly enough to be Platinum on one airline, you should probably pick one that offers Plats system-wide upgrade certs you can use to upgrade discounted coach fares to Europe. Sadly, NW isn't one of them.