You could try matching with CX. Also Air Berlin can give you Challenge for 3 or 4 months. (info from status matcher website)

But A3 is definitely the easiest and best way of getting Star alliance gold status - 4000 miles takes you to blue,, and another 16k within the year gives you gold status on every star alliance member FOR LIFE! i always wonder why people dont go for that

Just to clarify, A3 gives you 1000 miles just for signing up, therefore you only need to credit 19k miles in the first year to achieve *A Gold. In order to retain this status you must credit AT LEAST ONE FLIGHT which is what is commonly referred to as 'status for life'

Not sure, but SQ might do a status match due to your Virgin membership. I would imagine if you are able to provide details of your membership along with a statement of your previous travel, they may well help you out. Alternatively, Thai International would be a better option, as SQ in my dealings with them were very inflexible to say the least. Hope this helps.

Hi All! Airtran Elite (qualified with flights, not status matched from WN) through June 2015 (although Airtran "expires" before then of course). Any chance Delta will match?

To keep status for life wih A3 you need to credit one flight EVERY 3 YEARS ( otherwise the account closes) but the miles run out if no activity is done for 12 monyhs.

Original request sent to both emails on June 23, followup email sent on Aug 2, no updates yet...:(

Dont loose hope. I did the same as you... waited almost 2 months, but just yesterday was upgraded to Emerald! Wish it was a week ago as I had couple of KLM flights, but still not complaining.

It should work out for you too! ^

Just received an email from TK that I have been matched to Elite card. Submitted UA Gold statement and photo of card through online portal 3 weeks ago. Any way to access domestic *A lounges in the meantime as I wait for the card to arrive? Sounds like it can take a while...

Quick question to the FT'ers who got matched to China Airlines Emerald.

When should I expect a card at home? I got matched a week ago?

thanks in advance and cheers

It takes about a month after being matched.
Still, entering your card number when making a reservation should be enough to get lounge access, free extra luggage etc.

Thanks for the response.

Lounge access is my concern - as I think KLM crown lounge at AMS would like to see the physical Emerald card!

How long does the matched status with China Airlines Emerald last? Thanks.

One year. In my case May 2014- May 2015

Really. How did u follow up? Send them a follow up email with original request?

Mine still not upgraded,

I faxed over the request to Singapore Dynasty flyer cemter mumber