Status with Virtual Travel - Win Win ??
Mar 22, 2020 | 7:41 am
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: Dec 2011
Location: NYC, MD, LA
Programs: Delta-DM, United, Hilton-DM, SPG-PLTM
Posts: 462
Status with Virtual Travel - Win Win ??
Was thinking this might be a time where Airlines and Hotels could allow customers to book "virtual travel" for those seeking/chasing status, allow people to book that mileage run flight or stays at a hotel, earn the same MQM's, Stays, Nights, MQD's etc but the customer never has to actually show up and fly or stay the night. It's probably a lot harder than I assume, but if they are selling the flights - I saw WAS - JNB for $700, why not take my money, I get the points, MQM's towards status but don't have to sit on a plane for 24 hours. Hotels can take the stay money and never have to turn the room. The airlines and hotels get some revenue with no effort and status chasers get their points.
Mar 23, 2020 | 9:55 am
#2
Flyertalk Posting Legend Moderator: Credit Card Programs, American Express, Capital One, Chase, Citi, Diners Club, Eco Travel, Signatures
Join Date: Jun 2003
Location: Miami, Mpls & London
Programs: AA, IHG & Marriott Platinum; DL & HH Gold
Posts: 51,864
Some programs already do this on a seasonal basis by allowing members to "buy up" to the next status level. I doubt there would be a big market to pay for flights or nights with no benefit other than status credits. However, they might consider offering some bonus status credit to customers who have been forced to accept a voucher rather than a refund.