There are two main differences between airline and hotel loyalty programs.

Airline programs usually do not let award flights count toward status, while hotel programs generally do. So in hotels, it often makes little difference to your status whether you stay on a paid rate or on points. With airlines, the distinction between paid flights and award flights is far more important. An award-focused flight strategy therefore usually means less status, or lower status, over time.

And hotel programs are, in large part, about saving money. Most perks can ultimately be bought. Top-tier airline status is a different animal altogether. It materially changes the travel experience, and many of its most important benefits are hard to buy with money alone.