ctaylorgraham

I have been a member of the OnePass Program for about a year and a half. During my first year I earned over 25,000 OnePass miles and was elated that I would finally have my “Elite” status. So I asked them when it would go into effect.

The answer: “Never!” said with a wicked little laugh of course.

The reason: Elite Status accrues from January 1st to December 31st, so all of my miles from the previous year…. ? … well, they just went bye-bye. Sure they’re still there but not for Elite status.

Still, I trudged on. Getting to December when I had to cancel a flight, that they still have the money for but I haven’t actually flown, so it doesn’t count, and I find myself about 4,000 miles short. Darn it all!!!

But wait, there’s a light at the end of the tunnel. Continental just sent me an email for a chase card that gives me 5,000 miles!! Yes!

No! These miles don’t count toward elite status. Only miles from actually flying count toward elite status! I read the OnePass rules no mention of these miles not counting toward elite status. So I call customer service.

Me What do you mean these miles don’t count towards elite status? I’ve read the OnePass rules, and it says nothing about this.

CS You have to look in the elite section.

Me But, it doesn’t say anything anywhere in here about there being different rules for one or the other why would I assume that there’s a difference?

CS It explains that in your booklet.

Me ? What booklet, I never received a booklet.

CS Would you like to speak with a manager?

Me Yes, that would be a good idea.

Blah, blah, blah referral to the elite page which reads:

“OnePass Elite membership is earned by flying Continental Airlines and select airline partners. You can earn Elite status based on either Elite Qualification Miles or Elite Qualification Points in a calendar year.
The Elite Qualification Miles are based on the number of paid flight miles traveled (minimum of 500 miles or actual miles, whichever is greater) and the fare purchased. Elite Qualification Points are determined by the number of paid flown segments traveled and the fare class purchased.
Please note, Elite status is not based on your total OnePass account mileage balance. Mileage earned through promotional and partner offers, as well as certain non-qualifying mileage, does not apply toward Elite qualification. Additionally, certain fares such as industry discount, Hotwire and priceline.com do not count toward Elite qualification or mileage accrual.”

I really feel duped! I have no doubt that many others have had the same experience, and I truly believe that Continental intentionally keeps from pointing out any difference between the two. I’ve flown a lot of miles with Continental and that is about to stop.
I had a very bad experience with Delta, they offered me a $25 dollar gift certificate to make it better. I never used it and I have never flown with them again. In fact, that’s when I joined OnePass. I guess I’ll have to make another change.