Which Skyteam FF Program to join?
 

Hi,

I am not a member of any SkyTeam partner, but will be travelling on Alitalia in 2009, and it's about time I join one.

I live in London, and travel to Europe (Western Europe), Israel, and to the USA (and occasionally Australia, but probably not this year). Most trips are Economy (some are in Y) and a couple are Business.

What is the best FF program to join to maximise either Status, rewards, or both?

OK+, for the comp elite upgrades (incl. TLV) and 200% credit for most business class fares across the alliance. Non-airline earning options aren't plentiful, but otherwise it's hard to beat...

Agreed, if I lived in Europe and was doing your type of travel, I would join OK+. But since Im in the States, its NW for me (until it fully becomes DL).

However, if your travel to the States is close to 50%, I would still consider NW, for US North American free upgrades, generous elite bonus mileage, and ability to upgrade on DL, AS and CO (for the time being) free of charge.

If more then 50% of your travel is within Europe, Id go with OK+.