Which Program for an Infrequent Skyteam Flyer?
 

I will be taking a China Eastern flight from YVR-PVG, plus some other China domestic flights. I typically don't take many Skyteam flights so I haven't registered in any of their programs (being based in Canada, I usually end up on Star Alliance carriers), but I figure I would take this opportunity to do so. So my question is in which program should I register?

I am not sure what my future travel plans might be with Skyteam, but my thinking is that I should register with Delta Skymiles since miles there won't expire (correct me if I'm wrong on this), but I would appreciate any suggestions anyone out there may have.

I believe you are right. Being based in Canada, DL SkyClub is a natural and logical choice.

Which Program for an Infrequent Skyteam Flyer?
 

Makes sense. Although DL miles are good only for Domestic flights (easy availability). Also since you don't travel much, the no expiration date would be very helpful to you.

I agree that DL would be the best choice.

False. DL miles can be used for domestic or international award tickets, as well as upgrades from expensive fares. Elites get enhanced domestic coach award availability, so it's not clear that someone with no status would find it easier to redeem for domestic flights versus international.

ST member for person based in Kolkata / India
 

Hi Folks,

My brother usually travels to places in China ( Dalian /Guanzou / Beijing ) about 2 times a year.. He usually takes China eastern flight from Kolkata ( CCU) since it has 1 stop connection to most of the places he travels to in China and also much cheaper and shorter timings than TG / SQ which are the other options sometimes..

Considering the above travel pattern to China and other 2 trips to Europe ( which he usually takes Emirates / Qatar , should he join China Eastern loyalty program or some other one ?

Seek advise..
A

Always carefully check fare classes that award miles. Some partners give low, or no miles for some fare classes.

DL would not be my first choice for crediting miles given their horrid online interface, and difficulty in redeeming awards at low levels. I have hundreds of thousands of miles in DL that I'm still trying to burn through. I hardly ever find a low level award.