United Airlines and Southwest Airlines overhauled their loyalty programs, and status is becoming more about spending than flying. Here's what we think about elite status.
Quick summaryMajor U.S. airlines have shifted elite status qualification to focus more on total spending, including both flights and eligible credit card charges.Top-tier status now often requires significant spending, with some airlines allowing members to qualify entirely through credit card use.Perks like upgrades and flexible travel policies remain, but free upgrades have become harder to obtain as thresholds rise.
Combining flight activity with card spending is generally the most efficient path to elite status, though the value of status varies by traveler.What to considerSome airlines require a minimum number of flights in addition to spending to qualify for elite status.Shortcuts to perks like the Companion Pass have been reduced, making status harder to achieve without substantial spending or frequent flying.Status matches are available but often come with challenging requirements to maintain benefits beyond the initial period.
What you'll miss from the articleA detailed breakdown of how much spending is needed for various elite status tiers and practical advice on whether pursuing status aligns with your travel habits.Generated by AI with support from our editorial team.