In Jan 2008 I'm flying the LAX-SYD-AKL deal.

That trip will also necessitate a NYC-LAX r/t, most likely to be flown on UA to assure minimum of 2P status.

Presently, my travel is all leisure, mostly on DL from NYC-PBI.

However, in 2007 and/or 2008 I plan to make several leisure trips and/or MRs to West Coast cities (maybe SFO, SEA, PDX, LIH, ANC) and/or any other really good deals that come along)

My options appear to be:

1. Do some of those MRs by year end 2007 on DL and achieve Silver with goal to get UA 2P match prior to NZ trip.

Pro: Earn 25% RDM. on entire UA NYC-NZ trip. Increased RDMs and possibility of upgrades for all of 2008 on both UA & DL.

2.Wait until after UA NZ trip and then do UA MRs in an effort to get 1P status. Then ask DL for status match right away.

Pro: Better perks near end of 2008 & all of 2009.

3. Wait until after UA NZ trip and then do UA MRs in an effort to get 1P status. Wait to ask for DL status match until near the end of UA status term if it looks like i won't be able to requalify for 1P

4. Something You see that I missed?

Which option do you think has best chance of succeeding and carries most most benefits?

thanks