Switching elite status from one airline to another is possible and can be beneficial for frequent travelers who need to change their primary airline due to relocation, route availability, or dissatisfaction with current loyalty benefits. This process, commonly known as a “status match” or “status challenge,” allows you to carry over your elite perks to a new airline, albeit often temporarily and with certain conditions. Here’s a detailed look at how you can switch airline statuses in 2024.

Understanding Status Matching

A status match is when an airline grants you a corresponding elite status based on your current status with another airline. This is typically done to entice frequent flyers to switch their loyalty. For instance, if you hold Gold status with American Airlines, another airline like Delta might offer you a similar tier in their program.

Most status matches are not permanent and require you to complete specific criteria, known as a “status challenge,” to retain the status beyond a trial period.

How Status Matches Work

Delta Air Lines:

• Process: Delta offers a status match that provides immediate elite status for three months. To extend this status, you must complete a challenge within this period, involving flying a certain number of miles and spending a specific amount (Medallion Qualifying Dollars) on Delta flights.
• Validity: Successfully completing the challenge can grant you status valid until January 31, 2026​

United Airlines:

• Process: United’s MileagePlus program matches elite statuses from several airlines to its Premier tiers (Silver, Gold, Platinum). The initial match is valid for 90 days, during which you must meet flying requirements to extend the status.
• Requirements: To maintain the status, you need to complete a certain number of Premier Qualifying Flights (PQF) and earn Premier Qualifying Points (PQP) based on your spending on United flights​.

Southwest Airlines:

• Process: Southwest grants A-List status for 90 days to those with elite status on another U.S. airline. To extend this status for an additional 12 months, you need to complete three round-trip flights (or six one-way flights) within those 90 days​.

Hawaiian Airlines:

• Process: While recently more selective, Hawaiian Airlines can match your current elite status for up to 12 months. Requests are made through their customer service form, requiring proof of your current elite status and flight history​.

Spirit Airlines (Currently only wait-list available.):

• Process: Spirit offers a 90-day status match to its Free Spirit Silver or Gold tiers. To maintain this status, you need to meet reduced earning criteria during the trial period​.

Key Considerations

• Eligibility: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the status match and gather the necessary documentation, such as proof of current elite status and flight history.
• Challenge Requirements: Be prepared to meet the challenge requirements, which typically involve a combination of flight segments and spending thresholds within a specified period.

Conclusion

Switching airline status can be a strategic move for frequent flyers seeking better benefits or needing to switch airlines due to changes in travel patterns. By understanding the specific requirements and timing your application wisely, you can leverage status matching to maintain elite perks across different airlines. Always check the latest details and terms directly with the airline to ensure you meet all conditions for a successful status match.