It is almost past that time of year again - you get your frequent flier mileage statement and you realize you’re about to lose that hard earned airline “Elite” status…

If visions of “Just 3 more flight segments” or “Only 5,000 more miles” are dancing through your head - don’t despair — All hope is not lost – you still have a few options …

“Everything you think you know about frequent flier programs is wrong. Even the name “frequent flier program” is misleading. And every misperception you embrace helps the airlines beat you at the game.”
– Joe Brancatelli

What can we as frequent fliers do to protect our miles? Can we still collect on those “rewards” promised by the airlines? What can we expect if the airlines spin their FF programs off into separate companies?