Hello Flyertalk experts.

I want to determine the optimal frequent flyer rewards program for my circumstances. Here are quick answers to the suggested questions, with expanded details following.

(1) What is your home airport? I'm somewhat of a global nomad, although most common airports would be MNL/CRK (40%), YVR (10%), SFO (5%).
(2) What types of fares do you usually buy? A mix of premium economy and business.
(3) How many miles do you usually fly each year? 25k-50k is typical.
(4) Do you have any kind of status at present? What is it? None currently, although will be UA Silver very soon.
(5) What is most important to you in a FFP? Frequent upgrades on travel, priority services when flying the airline and good award redemption rates.
(6) Which routes do you fly most often? Transpacific and around Asia.
(7) Preferred Airlines? None.
(8) Do you travel for work or pleasure? Pleasure; I choose flights and class myself based on price and benefits.


I currently do not have status anywhere. However, I'm in the middle of Star Alliance 'Round The World' trip (CRWSTAR1, ~29000 miles). I chose United Mileage Plus to allocate the miles for this trip because I had some miles there already (I'm otherwise agnostic / naive about the best frequent flyer programs). The CRWSTAR1 will gain me Silver status in 2025/6. In future years, assuming I continue flying a lot, which Star Alliance partner is best to allocate miles?

A requirement of United's rewards program (and some other airline programs also) which could be problematic in future years, is the 4 United flight rule to qualify.

So, in the opinions of savvy Flyertalk experts, which frequent flyer plan would be optimal for me?

I look forward to opinions, suggestions and all questions.

Thanks,
Maple.