Originally Posted by
nikunjbhakta
Which airline offers the easiest way to get into the top tier program? And how many miles, trip segements are needed to accomplish that? Your thoughts.
Meaning which one program will allow you to earn platinum status (Highest Tier) each and every year for the lowest amount of miles flow or flight segments. (need to take out fast track options)
Where are you based? What country/region is home base for your travels?
Do you tend to book paid premium cabin or discounted coach?
I'm guessing that you are talking about a top-tier status that is recognized throughout one of the major world alliances. In other words, Midwest Airlines "top tier" (there's just one published level) is 20k, but good luck getting into a lounge in Europe or Asia with that card.
Of carriers that are at least somewhat recognized throughout the U.S., Alaska's 50k top-tier is pretty good. Of the six legacies themselves, I think 75k EQM is the lowest top-tier: DL/NW/CO Plat - Skyteam Elite Plus.
AA, US, and UA are all 100k, although 50k on either UA/US puts you at Star Alliance Gold, which is the top alliance-wide tier.
Some airlines also have reliable (ongoing) ways to accelerate your EQM's. Use the airline's credit card to either buy tickets or reach a spending threshold, for example. I wouldn't bank my decision on promotions, but for at least the past 2-3 years, United has had opportunities to pay a one-time buy-in to a 2x EQM promo at the end of the year.