This has really made me realise that FD is good compared to programmes such as the one on offer from AF or BA.

However, I have big concerns over the way AF do business in general.

I have today booked a load more flights with KLM as I made them a promise in March to fly with them f they sorted all the problems I had, and they did, so at the moment I have to keep my word. In fact I have just booked 4 trips and the prices are very very good compared to what I can find on AF. I will fly to China. Venice, Paris and Taiwan all on seperate trips and the cost with KLm was around £950. I would have to re-mortgage my house if ths was with FP and partners.

The deal from UA is to comp the status in return for my business, which seems OK to me as Star Alliance has a good network for my travel needs.

The down side is that I will have to use Teeside airport which is in the middle of nowhere as far as I am concerned.

BMI are offering me a couple of deals, one which is basically for me and the staff, two of which have hit silver with KLM in only 6 months. They are offering to start everyone off at Silver(5 people) and give 10 lounge invitations and then when ceratin thresholds are acheived on revenue (£20k) they will either give cash bonus, free flights and extra lounge invitations (10). Not sure this is what we are looking for as
I simply want to be able to use the lounges and use miles for upgrades on my long hauls over 4 hours duration.

Another downside is Heathrow is the hub, od I can go on the Lufthansa flight that connects through Dusseldorf.

I am currently talking with Lufthansa who seem to offer a really good network for my needs and will let you know how things progress.

It would be very interesting to see any other peoples ideas or views on this matter