Better off switching OP -> WP?
 

Gang, I need your advice... I recently left the D.C. area (where it was a struggle to maintain my CO loyalty, but I did the best I could) and am now located in Ann Arbor (using DTW as my home airport).

Naturally, the move was good in terms of SkyTeam access... but, given the hefty restrictions CO has placed on EQMs when traveling on partner airlines, I'm wondering if I'm not better off switching any new accrual to my WorldPerks account (hence, re-qualify for 2008 as a WP elite).

I understand NW only gives me 50% EQMs if I fly CO in Q, I, S, W, T, X, L... but OnePass will ONLY give me 100% EQMs for NW segments if I'm booked in M, H, or Q (which seems like a higher threshold).

I hope my dilemma is clear... thoughts?

If you are actualy based out of DTW I would recommend writing a clear explanation to NW and asking them to status match you - it does stand a good chance since you have relocated to one of their major hubs (I know there's technically no poaching, but given enough cause, they usually will do it anyways).

You'll only get 50% EQM's on cheap CO fares on WP.. Its bidirectional; but on NW and DL you'll always get 100% EQM's at a minimum - NW is quite generous about mileage promotions (milesafari, elite extra for example this year )

Just the fact that DTW will be your prime hub - you are going to be flying NW so likely makes sense to credit them to a NW WP account. NW has a few extra benefits over the CO OnePass program if you fly alot.

Would asking NW for a match even be worth it, since I'm already a CO elite? With SkyTeam reciprocity, does it really matter which airline I have status on for the time being?

It does if you want your upgrades and posting to WP account, and bonuses..

Of course. My bad. :p

Can't help you with your question, so I'll just say Welcome to A2! :)

If you are worried about no EQM credit for the fare classes which you are likely to fly on CO as well as Northworst, I would suggest you at least look at FlyingBlue as another option:

CO: Full flight credit (100% in coach, 150% in business). This scale applies to booking classes A, B, C, D, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O, Q, S, T, U, V, W, X, Y, Z.

NW: Full flight credit (ditto). This scale applies to booking classes B, C, F, H, I, J, K, L, M, P, Q, R, T, Y, Z and 25% in V.

Only 100% elite bonus, though. On the other hand, platinum requalification @ 70K miles (unless you live in France, which is just a little bit different from Detroit).

May not work for you, but look at this option if you really split your travel. Elite upgrades would differ of course; you would be able to upgrade NW, but not CO.