I agree with previous advice that focusing miles on CO is better because of the HP link-up. (CO also code-shares with Virgin, which NW does not.) Like NW, CO also has a FF link-up with KLM (though not as complete) in case travel to Europe becomes an issue. Similar link-ups with Alaska. And finally, CO has a link-up with Quantas in case you ever wish to redeem miles to go down under. (NW forces you to go the long way - via Kuala Lumpur - on Malaysia.)

Re the programs themselves - NW has a dedicated elite line for Gold and Plat. CO does not. (I am unconvinced it's a significant utility, but they do tend to pick up the phone faster, which is sometimes useful when trying to rebook on the fly.) CO typically provides better bonus opportunities. CO considers OnePass elite slightly ahead of WorldPerks elite for upgrades. NW (supposedly) is more egalitarian. Obviously, that means the deal's better for OP elites!

Re the airlines - I'd much rather fly CO than NW any day. And I'd rather walk than fly HP any day... but that's just an opinion

Pushpak

[This message has been edited by Pushpak (edited 03-13-2002).]