Having status is important for many when it comes to business travel offering perks such as priority security lines, priority boarding, lounge access, upgrades and more – all luxuries, which make travelling for business more enjoyable. Due to COVID-19, the current status of loyalty programs have been in question, however, airlines and hotels have started addressing their customers concerns. Here we will update you as major airlines release updates on their loyalty programs moving forward.

Air Canada

Air Canada announced that they will be extending customers Altitude status until the end of 2021, while also implementing some new initiatives – including a way to earn Altitude Qualifying Miles while donating to charities engaged in fighting the COVID-19 crisis. Click here for more details.

American Airlines

If your current elite status expires on January 31,2021, then American Airlines will be extending elite frequent flyer status through January 31st, 2022. Additionally, they have lowered the threshold for points needed to earn status for 2021. Click here for more details.

British Airways 

While British Airways did not extend members 2020 status as of yet until 2021, they announced that they have lowered qualifying requirements. Elite members with a status renewal date in April, May and June of this year can requalify for status with 30% fewer Tier Points due to the coronavirus outbreak. Click here for more details.

Delta 

Delta led the pack when it came to releasing new loyalty measures. They announced that all 2020 Medallion statuses would be extended through 2021 and that all Medallion Qualification Miles from 2020 would be rolled over to 2021 to qualify for 2022. Click here for more details.

United  

Those with 2020 Premier status in will have it extended until January 31, 2022. Additionally, United is reducing thresholds for Premier qualification by 50% for each status level, making it easier to qualify for their loyalty program. Click here for more details.

WestJet  

The company has been proactively extending or upgrading members who were on track to achieve status in March, April or May and will continue their efforts in the months ahead. Click here for more details.