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As the year 2024 draws to a close, travelers are exploring options to secure elite status with various airline loyalty programs. With many airlines shifting from mileage-based to spending-based qualification systems, last-minute flights are becoming a popular strategy for achieving these goals.
American Airlines AAdvantage members earn elite status by accumulating Loyalty Points over a March 1-February 28 period. "AAdvantage members earn 5 Loyalty Points for every dollar spent on American Airlines airfare (excluding taxes and government fees), except when booking a basic economy ticket." To bridge any shortfall in points, flyers can opt for specific itineraries like Miami to Asheville or Miami to Orlando, earning up to 2,375 Loyalty Points.
Delta SkyMiles program bases Medallion status solely on Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs). "SkyMiles members earn 1 MQD per $1 spent on the ticket price for a Delta-marketed flight operated by Delta or a partner airline (excluding basic economy fares)." For instance, flights from JFK to Detroit or LaGuardia to Washington could help travelers accumulate necessary MQDs quickly.
