*sniff* Yesterday was the day--I finally lost status with American (after holding P/PE with United for several years and Gold with American for the past year or two). I moved to NY three years ago, and my travel has decreased due to a change in job and the fact that I'm now in a much more compact sales territory where driving and train travel are both possible and preferred (for me, anyway).

I feel like I no longer have reason to stay loyal to American (or any other airline, for that matter).

In the grand scheme of things, this is really not that big of a deal, but after really making an effort to stick with an airline or two for several years, I'm almost hurt that my business now means nothing to them.

So here is my question--are there any tips and strategies I can use in my new role as riff-raff to continue to get the seats I prefer (aisles) and generally have a more pleasant experience? Is it worth it to call a couple airlines and just ask for status based on loyalty?

Thanks

A.

Both AA and UA offer "lifetime status" programs. UA's is based on butt-in-seat miles (1MM = 1P), while AA's is based on all miles accumulated (including from partners like credit cards) (1MM = Gold, 2MM = Platinum).

Umm. Not to be a smart alec, but you could consider doing what many of us do. Fly a few mileage runs and EARN the status. There are a lot of us who do not get our status out of our employer's pocket.

That's a terrific idea for someone who has money and time to burn. I have neither.

Anyway, I'm figuring there is no way around it. So, the other part of my question--what can I do to make my less-frequent travel more pleasant without status?

Make friends with a travel agent. That includes booking all your travel though him/her, paying his/her fees if any. They can push buttons we can't reach.

You could pay $299 annually which will allow you to sit in Economy Plus on United. Doubt it's worth it unless you're making a long international trip.

Spirit airlines is offering status just for acquiring their credit card. I do not know what their status gets you, but it may be worth a look.

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