Dear Joel,

I have achieved the highest elite status offered by my airline for this year. Now that I have, should I continue to accumulate more base miles with them or fly a new airline?

Lance

Dear Lance,

Congratulations on achieving the highest level with your air travel partner. What you need to do is consider what your travel needs will be for the reminder of 1999. If you will fly at least 20,000 to 25,000 miles (minimum level of elite status) before the end of the year it could be worth it to look at building loyalty with another air carrier as well. Determine where you fly most frequently and see what other carriers serve that market. If there is another air carrier that would meet your needs, and your comfortable with the level of service they offer, fly them the rest of the year and achieve their minimum level of elite status. Each time you fly with them, let them know you are doing so to establish a level of loyalty. This will get you the free upgrades. The point of doing this is so you will have a back-up carrier next year. If your primary carrier is not able to upgrade you or the fare is too expensive, your second carrier will be a great alternative.

Good luck,
Joel