Hi all,

Having some problems with enrolling in the Challenge, wanted to know if there is anything else I can do. I'm on track to make AA Executive Platinum but wanted to switch to Delta due to a change in weekly business itinerary. Applied for a match of my AA Gold status 3/9. Bought my next two months of weekly tickets on Delta starting tomorrow, 3/22.

I called today to ask when and was told they are backed up, still processing applications from 3/4 and that it may be as long as another 10 business days.

I can deal with the domestic flights, but I have several short turnaround international flights starting 4/4 where I need to work through the flight. The SkyMiles representative told me he was very sorry but sometimes these things just "slip through." Now I'm regretting having booked these challenge flights after many years of superb AA service (moved away from Delta originally due to poor customer service).

I guess I am stuck waiting. Do any experienced FT members have advice on additional contact numbers/emails/routes to try? I originally called the SkyMiles customer service. The Challenge only lists a fax # and a generic email.

AA Gold is matched to DL FO (Silver Medallion). How will this help you work through an international flight?

For international travel, FO benefits include Zone 1 boarding and a 25% discount on Economy Comfort seating. You'll have to pay to move forward with or without the status match.

Exactly what I was thinking. Also, during the status challenge, you get status benefits on DL only and are not given an elite card, so even for challenges at higher tiers, you wouldn't get any partner benefits, including use of their overseas lounges when traveling internationally.