Which FF program? (Europe based)
 

This is my first post to this forum. I am trying to make a decision about FF programs. I live in Paris and travel mostly back to the US (east coast and Colorado). I am 1P on UA and wondering what program would make the best sense from here. Should I stick with UA? I like to redeem awards for tickets and, at times for upgrades. I would also appreciate suggestions about the ease of gaining elite level possibilities in appropriate programs.
I have at least 2 trips already planned for 2003 and another possibly including Alaska.
Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Thanks!

welcome!
I just joined this forum too--last week, over from another one...

My advise (IMHO):

1)stick with only 1,2, or at the maximum, 3 programs for FF miles. That way you earn more faster. It outweighs the prices of tickets I think. Joining too many is not good I think... for most people. YOu may know this though.

2) Stick with airlines you like and can use, and who go where you FLY or live. If UAL for example, flies to and fro destinations needed for your lifestyle then they may be your airline of choice. I would imagine, therefore, that Hawaiian Airlines would not make sense right now for you because you are in France and they are not.

I would suggest that joining the AMERICAN VERSIONS of any FF program is a better idea these days. Why? Well, 2 examples:

My wife is Dutch. Her parents live there. They could join KLM FF program but they get more awards if we put them down as people with US addresses, which you may also have access to, and they joined the Northwest FFP instead. With that program, I have been able to help them earn more miles faster and this has to do with the fact that the marketing promos are so huge here these days.

Here's a tip I have mentioned in here already: I have been able to set up my own credit card to idine to THEIR Northwest accts! They get miles they need and they did nothing. If you need info on idine, ask us. It is a great way in the USA to earn more!

In New Zealand, I think people have to pay $ to join an FFP, but if they were members in the USA they would not!

3) Since you can do most anything online, why not consider that if you are concerned about where info or statements go? If something does need to happen by mail, so be it. Just have someone on the USA end to help you out. The airline need not know if your move to france is temp or for always. (of course, that is an ethical question and I may be different than the next guy)

I guess United is therefore and OK choice. they are partners with Singapore KrisFlyer, and THEY are in cahoots with DL and maybbbbe Airfrance but I am not totally sure. In any case, keep it simple and right now, unless the deal is huge, then I say for miles programs, keep it based in the USA.

Good luck!

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If speed is not your thing, distance may as well be. Enjoy and embrace it all!

In which class are you flying most times?

coach class (E+), so not much bonus miles earner, obviously http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif