Best Star Alliance FF program?

[Commuter]

I am normally loyal to OneWorld but I need to fly quite a bit on Star Alliance carriers (due to the lack of OneWorld routes in the area) for quite some time.

I'll be doing mostly European short haul sectors on discount economy fares, including quite a lot on Lufthansa and possibly LOT.

I'm mainly interested in priority check-in, extra baggage limit and lounge access, so a fast 'higher tier status' achievement is my most important goal. I'm not too fussed about the burn rate.

I would be most grateful if you could advise me of the most suitable frequent flyer program for a Star Alliance carrier in my circumstance. (I really don't have a clue about Star Alliance.)

Also, is there any carrier on Star Alliance that will cross-recognise my OWE status?

 

[Keith009]

Try BMI diamond club - they match most things. But you need to make sure they know that QF platinum is top tier status - they've been known to go by the colour of the card and for instance - match AA Gold to BD*G, and AA PLT/EXP to BD*S! :shock:

After matching to BD*G you then only need 38 000 EQMs to requalify and it's all on a rolling year instead of calendar year - so v flexible!

And you might not be interested but the earn/burn rate is also very good with generous min miles for a lot of partner airlines. The long haul premium awards are also exceedingly good value especially with the Cash+Points scheme. Plus you can also generate lots of miles by staying at Hiltons - 1000 miles/night to a max of 3000 miles/stay.

There;s also that signing up bonus now...

So there you go - great earn/burn, and easy-ish status.

 

[Commuter]

Thanks very much for your help QF009, it's good to hear that earn/burn ratio is great, that's a terrific bonus to have!

As it happens, I saw the post about 9000 free miles and signed up shortly after I posted the thread - I thought 'What the heck, let's sign up while the offer is on, and if there is a better program available, I'll just signed up for that and leave the BMI one alone'.

Now, regarding the status comp, how does one arrange for this? (I really haven't a clue, have I...) I shall definitely make sure they recognise my QF WP as the top tier. Thanks very much for the tip!

 

[Keith009]

Now, regarding the status comp, how does one arrange for this? (I really haven't a clue, have I...)

Don't have a clue here either - however there is a thriving BMI forum on FT with some good FAQ stickies.

 

[Commuter]

Thanks for the pointer QF009, I'll go and have a look at FT