I’ve been loyal to KE for a while, and am looking for some help strategizing for the upcoming devaluation. For some context…
- Travel Pattern: 2x RT Northeast US (NYC, WAS, BOS) to ICN in discount Y, 2-3x domestic (5-10k miles)
- Preferences: KE/DL seem most convenient for TPAC, no preference domestically
- Current Status: KE Morning Calm (160k lifetime miles)
- Goals: Earn mid-tier status, book decently priced J class awards

My primary dilemma is earning mid-their elite status. I’m not sure if there’s any airline that I could earn status on q with my travel patterns. Since I fly 35-40k miles a year, I’d be pretty close to hitting KE status, except I usually book K, L, or U fares (which earn 75%) Does anyone know of any workarounds for getting KE status, DL status, or anything SkyTeam Elite Plus with my travel?

Also, I’m trying to find some award sweet spots (preferably on SkyTeam) for the awards I usually book However, I’m not aware of any SkyTeam programs that have decent pricing on TPAC awards, especially in J. (AF, DL, and now KE all charge around 100k.) I’m ok being loyal to one carrier, but is there an alternative that could work given my mostly Y travel? And yes, I’m aware of NH and AC sweet spots, but those usually involve inconvenient routings given UA’s lackluster award space.

Given the above, should I considering switching alliances? If so, what airlines/routes/.FFPs do people recommend for me?

Thanks for all of your help! I really appreciate it.