Originally Posted by
planefacts
(1) What is most important to you in a FFP?
Upgrades (especially on long-haul), priority services (check-in, boarding, baggage). Award redemption value matters, but in-flight comfort and reduced friction while traveling are the primary goals. Complimentary or realistically attainable upgrades are a key interest.
(2) How many miles do you usually fly each year & in what class? How many flights/sectors?
Approximately 150,000–160,000 miles per year, primarily long-haul international. Roughly 20 one-way flights annually, mostly Asia–US and Asia–Europe sectors. All flying is currently in Economy. Typical one-way sector is ~7,500–8,000 miles.
(3) What types of fares do you usually buy?
Economy class, often lower fare buckets such as O or M. Note my company buys on it's card. I don't get to use my CC.
(4) Can you choose your airlines and/or class of service? Do you travel for work and/or pleasure?
Yes, I can generally choose the airline and routing. All travel is for work. Company tries to buy the lowest fare class, does this only 4/5 days prior to flying, so I guess O class, some times Y maybe.
(5) Which routes and airlines do you fly most often?
Primarily Asia–US long-haul (India ↔ US), with some Asia–Europe travel. Currently flying Qatar Airways most often (but I can try and change that based on your advice), with additional flying on SkyTeam and Star Alliance carriers depending on routing.
(6) What is your home airport?
BLR
(7) Do you have FFP status of any kind in OW or other airline? What is it? Do you have any miles banked in a FFP?
Yes.
• Qatar Airways Gold (Sapphire)
• Flying Blue Silver
Also holding smaller balances across other programs from past flying.
(8) Preferred Airlines? Most common Airlines flown on?
No fixed preference yet; open to community feedback. In practice, fly Qatar Airways, Air France/KLM, Delta, British Airways, Emirates, and other major international carriers based on work requirements.
Thanks,
PF
If your company is buying late Economy tickets (even in lower fare buckets) then you probably want to look at a programme which credits on spend, so BA Club flying BA for example gets you the most bang for your (company's) buck. Status upgrades do happen on BA but realistically need a lower cabin to be oversold and for there to be space in the higher cabins.