As I'm flying back from Portland, I got inspired to write this post as it's my inaugural flight into Premiere Executive status on United. The more I travel, the more I realize how having status on a specific airline is becoming such a great asset. Most airlines offer perks, and typically treat you better when you have status with them. Not to mention, by staying with one airline and sign up for their mileage programs, you start to reap the benefits. (Just like using credit cards for the benefits). Some of the great things checking in at "Status" check in point which saves you the headache of standing in a huge line of people. Just the same with going through security. I've typically found that I can be to the gate in 15 minutes of getting to LAX if I'm flying my preferred airline.
Choosing an airline to obtain status on can depend on a few things. Mainly where a majority of your travel is to. A couple years ago, I moved my loyalty to United for a few reasons(How many airlines HAVEN'T gone bankrupt at this point anyways?):
1. Having at least Premiere status, any economy flight you book with United, you are automatically upgraded to Economy Plus which gives you 5 inches more legroom between the seat in front of you. It's definitely a small luxury after flying other airlines where your knees are crammed into the seat in front of you. Even more so the point is driven home when the guy in front of you leans his chair back right into your lap. Those 5 inches makes a long flight just THAT much more comfortable.
2. They fly to a lot of international airports as well as many of the larger cities in the US.
3. LAX has a separate terminal for "status" members. Checkin is faster.
4. Most airports have a separate security line for status members. Speeds up the process.
5. You get bonus miles for every flight once you achieve status, which adds up fast.
6. A few more benefits here.
There are more little advantages, but these are the top main ones. Now if only I could combine my favorite airline, Virgin America and United, I'd be the most happiest frequent flyer. Virgin just doesn't fly to as many destinations, but when I can fly them I will. If only they had an economy plus section and more affiliations with other airlines.
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