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TPG reader Josh sent me a message on Facebook to ask about being a frequent flyer:

I get a lot of value out of the AAdvantage program and Executive Platinum status, but that’s partly because of how much I travel, especially out of American’s hub in Miami. Elite benefits aren’t worth much unless you actually use them. If I were flying only a few times each year, I’d probably forego loyalty and just pick whichever airline was least expensive and most convenient for a given trip — I still do that sometimes anyway.

If you fly often, then deciding whether to remain loyal to one airline is a bit tougher. High-level status can offer some incredibly lucrative benefits, such as the Global Premier Upgrades you get with United Premier 1K. I think you can justify an extra layover or a slightly higher price from time to time if it helps you reach the upper tiers of your frequent flyer program. If it only means the difference between low-level status or none at all, then there’s much less reason to go out of your way.

Earning miles has gotten harder for many flyers with the switch to revenue-based programs.

As for earning miles, there’s been less incentive to remain loyal on that front since Delta and United introduced revenue-based mileage in 2015 (with American set to follow later this year). Leisure travelers are generally earning fewer miles from flying, and there’s more to be gained by maximizing spending and getting in on the top credit card sign-up bonuses than working toward elite status for a higher earning rate. If you’re determined to stick with one airline, do it for the elite benefits and not the extra miles.

Check out these posts for more discussion about choosing (and staying loyal to) airline programs:

If you have any other questions, please tweet me @thepointsguy, message me on Facebook or send me an email at info@thepointsguy.com.

Source: thepointsguy.com