And the Smart Way to Do It

After reading last month’s column on bailing out of American’s AAdvantage program, many of you wrote in asking how to do the same for other frequent flyer programs. Here’s your ejection plan for Continental’s OnePass.

First, I can see why so many OnePass Members are ready to bolt: Continental is removing up to 20% of domestic First Class seats on some aircraft (FCF Mar. 2005), doling out elite upgrades based on fare paid — and levying international upgrade surcharges that go as high as $900. Many view it as extortion in return for loyalty. Moreover, you don’t even need the program.

Consider this: A New York-London round-trip with a 50-day advance can cost as little as $1,500 — with good availability. But using OnePass miles, the same ticket costs about $400 to $500 for the base fare, plus a $900 upgrade surcharge, plus 50,000 miles — for an upgrade you’ll be lucky to get.

Why go there?

Better OnePass Strategy?

The strategy is basically the same one I outlined with American last month: Go with one of the carrier’s frequent flyer program partners.

Strategy summary: By purchasing heavily discounted First Class fares domestically (thus avoiding the increasingly poor elite upgrade odds) but earning the right/better miles with a program partner of the domestic carrier, you’ll be better positioned for the best international fares and upgrades — and the most comfortable seats.

Best European partner: While Continental’s partners aren’t as rich as American’s, it does have a good one to Europe: Virgin Atlantic. You know I’m a fan of Virgin’s new Upper Class Suite (FCF Oct. 2004), plus its upgrades carry no cash surcharges — and the availability is sometimes better than on Continental.

So fly Continental domestically if you must, but use your Virgin Flying Club number when making bookings. Flying with America West, Delta and many others will also earn Virgin miles.

Best Asian partner: Here the air gets thin. The main foreign partner is Korean Air, which offers lots of flights from the US, but is far down the list on service and safety. The best compromise is Northwest.

Best domestic partner: While Northwest WorldPerks is not that much better than OnePass for domestic upgrading, it can be better on international routes. Northwest’s Full-Fare Upgrades require fewer miles with MUCH better availability to both Asia and Europe. This is a great option for Business travelers already paying B-fares or higher.