Elite Status

Loyalty programs reward frequent customers with status tiers that are requalified each year. Airline benefits typically include priority check-in, security, and boarding, free checked bags, better seat selection, waived fees on some fares, and complimentary upgrades at higher tiers. Most major US airlines now base status largely on dollars spent, and some count co-branded credit card spending toward it.

Status travels further through alliances. Top tiers map to alliance-wide levels, Star Alliance Gold, oneworld Emerald and Sapphire, and SkyTeam Elite Plus, which can bring lounge access and priority handling on partner airlines. Hotel status works similarly, adding perks like late checkout and room upgrades when available.

For business travelers, concentrating flights on one airline or alliance is usually what makes status attainable. Keep every loyalty number in your traveler profile so credit posts on each trip; our airline elite status guide explains how the tiers work.