Elite status entitles frequent flyer program members who maintain a specific annual mileage to special perks above and beyond free flights.
Note that the exact benefits of elite status vary from program to program. Typical benefits include:

  • Priority check-in and boarding
  • Free or reduced-cost first-class upgrades
  • Access to lounge area for elite members at airports

Comparison of points required for Elite membership levels

Below is a table comparing the number of points required to reach elite or privileged status for each of the major frequent flyer programs.
In most cases, the required miles need to be obtained within one “program year.”
To view the official elite status requirements and benefits for these programs, please visit the frequent flyer program websites on our links page.

Program Silver Gold Platinum Chairman’s
Continental OnePass 25,000 50,000 75,000 n/a
Delta SkyMiles 25,000 50,000 75,000 n/a
Northwest WorldPerks 25,000 50,000 75,000 n/a
US Airways 25,000 50,000 75,000 100,000
American Airlines AAdvantage * 25,000 50,000 100,000 n/a
United Airlines ** 25,000 50,000 100,000 n/a


* Uses the terms Gold, Platinum, and Executive Platinum

** Uses the terms Premier, Premier Executive, and 1K