Questions and Answers

With changes to frequent flyer programs, I focus more on points from credit cards (in my case Am. Ex.) than accruing points. I use them mostly internationally. What I look for is my chances of getting an automatic upgrade from the airlines. I I fly enough to be platinum with AA. I get upgraded 50% of the time. When I was gold, I was rarely upgraded, so my 500 mile certificates just kept accruing. Delta has unlimited upgrades, but why do them if I never get them. American is not the best airline to combine with Am Ex. So my question is which of the airlines have the best chance of upgrading with my or other elite status levels? Do you recommend a different strategy?

I’m not sure what you mean by an “automatic” upgrade. I’m a low EQD EXP with AA and last week there were 16 on the upgrade list out of PHL to SAN and no one cleared. I’m sure there might have been a few up in F using SWUs but more and more, passengers are purchasing those seats, myself included. Depending on where you live and where you travel, your chances of upgrades can vary wildly. Where are you based and where do you travel?

Yeah, it really depends on where you’re based, plus when and where you’re flying to. Upgrades aren’t guaranteed at any elite level.