I just recently became a member. As I was reading thru numerous topics I saw where if one was a GM with DL one could get comp'd as G with UL or AA is this true and if so how do you go about obtaining this.

Thanks
MW

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[This message has been edited by MikeWats (edited 01-10-2001).]

Write a letter to (for example) United's Mileage Plus and advise them you would like to start using their airline more but it's difficult to make the switch without the perks associated with your Gold status at Delta.

Enclose a copy of your latest Delta SkyMiles statement (a copy of your on-line statement might suffice, particularly if you print enough to show an active history) which shows your Gold status. Ask for comparable status. The entire letter should be no more than a half page. Be sure to include your Mileage Plus number!

I have tried this four times. I'm four for four.

Your new status will normally be valid for the rest of the year. You will have to earn the Gold status on United to be treated as such next year. A similar letter sent for next year normally won't work.

If you have a travel agent, he/she may be helpful in identifying a specific place to send it to or even in handling it all for you. (Mine was.) The sales reps who work with travel agencies often do favors for them in the hopes of swinging more of the agency's bookings to their airline.

If you are interested in UA, they call it the Go For The Gold Program. The fax number is 605-341-6140. They will probably comp you to Premier Executive for your DL gold. Note, they usually will not comp to 1K status. Most airlines, though not all, will not comp to their top elite status.

CO, however and possibly others, will comp to Platinum which is the top status. In most cases, you can call the program service center, and get a fax number to speed up the process. As pointed out, local sales reps can also do this.

Hotel programs may also be willing to comp. It never hurts to ask.

AA officially has a "challenge" where you fly so many miles, and get the status. Some on this board have just gotten a straight no challenge comp, but I tried it and all they offered me was the challenge on several phone calls.

Thanks for your help I'll try this.

Another key point: Most airlines consider comps a "once in a lifetime" deal. If they comp you a status, and then you lose it, they probably will never comp you again. (If anyone can contradict this, please post it! Most airlines seem STRICT about this.)

In other words, if an airline has a challenge that you think you will successfully complete, it might be in your best interest to do it. If not, then you can decide whether your 2001 travel will justify the "once in a lifetime" comp.

I wonder if TW and US are still comping people? Hmmmm....

I called TWA on Tuesday (1/9) and the rep signed me up for a new Aviators account and told me to fax my Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan statement, said it is their policy to match tier status.... I'm hoping to get converted to AA Gold, then maybe fly towards Plat on the challenge!

-Robert

MikeWats, welcome to FlyerTalk. CO will match your current level up to and including their Platinum level.

Continental does offer a One Pass Match Program. Through this program they will match your current elite level of another airline with a comparable One Pass elite level, including Platinum, valid through the current program year, ending February 28, 2001. At this time of year I believe they will extend it through the end of the next program year, ending February 28, 2002. I would give One Pass a call to be certain.

They require:
[*]A copy of your current Elite (the other airline) Membership Card.
[*]A copy of your latest (the other airline) statement, stating actual miles flown and showing your elite level.
[*]A note indicating you wish to participate in their One Pass Match Program.
If a Continental One Pass member:
[*]A copy of your current One Pass Membership Card.
[*]A copy of your current One Pass statement.
Mail To:
Continental Airlines
One Pass Service Center
Attn: One Pass Match Program
P O Box 4365
Houston, TX 77210-4365

Or, better yet, if you are in a hurry, overnight it to:
Continental Airlines
One Pass Service Center
9999 Richmond Avenue, Suite 112
Houston, TX 77042
(713) 952-1630

For the latest information or any unanswered questions, you may wish to call 800.621.7467

The intent of this program, is of course, that you will bring your business to Continental. Overall, Continental is an excellent airline! Good luck and happy flying!!!

Underscoring Efrem's point, if your travel agency is large enough to receive frequent visits from airline reps, your agent should be able to pull off at least one conversion for you with very little difficulty.