Hello FlyerTalk,

This is my first post!

I've been lurking here for a few months now, reading intently about all the ins-and-outs of the "elite flying world."

It just so happens that I'm going to make FO this November. I'm excited about becoming a medallion, but from what I read, it seems like FO is really just a title these days (though I have my fingers crossed for at least some upgrades!).

My question - If I make FO in november, when do I "officially" become FO, and how long does my status last?

Also, am I really going to notice a difference between being a savvy, regular flyer and being a savvy FO? Is it going to make some things easier? (My home airport is DCA. I fly to ATL, DTW, and Italy often).

I've looked on delta.dumb for the answer, and I can't pin it down.

I'd really appreciate some help.

Best,

VolareBene

Welcome to FlyerTalk. Do please give up the delta.dumb tagging.

The elite qualification year runs from January 1 to December 31. With your projected qualifying flight in November you will gain elite status shortly (maybe a day or two) following credit of the flight. Elite status (if not renewed through ongoing medallion qualifying mile activity) will last to February 29, 2012.

http://www.delta.com/skymiles/about_...ions/index.jsp

While FO benefits have decreased there are some advantages over general members:

• As you already acknowledged, the chance, albeit slim, for complimentary domestic upgrades to first class (here)
• Priority seats (here)
• Two free checked bags up to 70lbs each (here)
• 25% flight bonus on SkyMiles (here)
• Discounted SkyClub membership (here)
• Priority check-in and priority boarding (here)

FO is not what it used to be but there are still some advantages.

FO is not as bad as people make it out to be. Aside from the benefits mentioned above, depending on your routing you will still see some upgrades. Many of the flights I'm on are offering paid upgrades at the gate which means that they have cleared all medallion upgrades (including FO's).