Virgin America today extended its status match program for elite frequent fliers with American and United – and added Southwest Airlines. It’s a match/challenge combo, actually, where you’ll be matched outright until June 30, 2013 and offered the ability to extend your status through the end of 2013.
This extension is for new applicants as of April 2, and will not include anyone who participated in their original offering last November.
First, here’s the chart of how the American, United and Southwest elite tiers match to Elevate Silver or Gold:
Here are the benefits of Elevate Silver and Gold:
There are a couple of exceptions to the perks above in the T&Cs for those members matched. During the challenge period (now through June 30, 2013), you will not receive the 25% off discount codes, nor will you have reciprocal benefits (lounge access, primarily) on Virgin Atlantic and Virgin Australia that require a physical membership card. Cards will not be issued for matched members. Also, matched members will only receive one complimentary pass to the Virgin America lounge at LAX.
To have your matched status extended through the 2013 program year, you must:
It’s a nice break they’re giving for Virgin America Visa Signature cardholders, according to the chart above.
The current bonus mile offer for being approved for the credit card is 10,000 bonus points after the first purchase. You can also earn up to 5,000 additional bonus points if you transfer a balance within the first 30 days.
While they don’t have a complimentary first class upgrade program for elites, Virgin America does open up purchased upgrades earlier for Silver (12 hours) and Gold (24 hours) members. Upgrades to Main Cabin Select seats are, however, complimentary and follow the same timeframe/window. While waiting for that upgrade, elites can book Main Cabin Express seats (those near the front) at the time of booking.
Sorry Delta fliers… there’s still no match for you. American, United and Southwest elites, click here for the status match page with instructions on how to apply.
Related posts:
Virgin America Launches Status Match for American, United Elites
Flight Review: Virgin America First Class LAX to Seattle
Flight Review: Virgin Australia Business Class Sydney to Perth
Flight Review: Virgin Australia Business Class Perth to Sydney
Dang it, my Companion Pass just expired :/
Also, I’m a little surprised they aren’t matching for Alaska elites.