Just want to share my recent experience regarding comp status:

I recently approached Mileage Plus as an existing SQ PPS member (Star Gold) anticipating re-locating to the US in 2002, requesting complimentary Premier Executive status - with the full intention of going for 1K qualification in 2002.

This request has been turned down twice so far, with UA repeatedly arguing that they do not match status for Star Alliance partners. When my second request was denied, I was given Premier status "as a gesture of goodwill". Frankly, after consecutive years as a top-tier FF with over 60,000 annual miles in paid F/C, this is more insulting than positive. I merely asked for the SAME status I would have reached had I flown the equivalent miles on UA.

Any advice on the best next move (i.e. who/which office to call), or should I just tell them to shove it and head off to greener pastures of AA Plat challenge, and eventual ExPlat?

Partial transcript of e-mail exchanges are copied below.

Thanks in advance.

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MILEAGE PLUS’ 1st REPLY
Hello Mr. XXX,

Thank you for your e-mail.

I would like to welcome you to the Mileage Plus Program. I am sorry but we do not offer Status Match for our customers that are members of our Star Alliance frequent flyer programs. You will receive your status on United after the qualifying miles have been flown. Your status with Singapore Air will still allow you to be able to receive the ability to use the lounges and the other privileges you now receive. Thank you for joining the Mileage Plus Program.

Best Regards,


2nd REQUEST
Dear Ms. XXX,

The fact that I have already joined Mileage Plus does not in any way guarantee that I will choose to fly United on a regular basis.

You may be aware that your competitor, American Airlines, offers customers a very convenient fast-track to their Platinum status, which I can easily obtain within the space of a single intercontinental flight (of which I make an average of two each month in paid First or Business class). I view this as an indication that American Airlines are interested in earning my not insignificant business, whereas United's response to my request shows quite the opposite.

I am fully aware that United Airlines DOES offer complimentary status to Star Alliance frequent fliers on a case-by-case request basis. I have made this request due to my impending relocation to the United States, and not to deprive United's Star Alliance partner (Singapore Airlines) of my business. Hence, I would like this matter to be referred to a supervisor within either Mileage Plus or the United Airlines sales department, and would like to hear back from them directly.

Needless to say, whether I choose to frequent United Airlines or switch to American Airlines/OneWorld greatly depends on a positive outcome to this request.

Thank you and regards,


MILEAGE PLUS’ 2nd REPLY
Dear Mr. XXX,

Thank you for your reply.

We do not match status with our Star Alliance partners, Mr. XXX, so unfortunately, I cannot accommodate your request to upgrade your new account to Premier Executive status. As a gesture of goodwill, I have upgraded your account to Premier. This status will be valid for the rest of 2001 and all of 2002.

Sincerely,
XXX XXXX
Mileage Plus Customer Relations