Flying Blue (Air France-KLM) is offering a paid status match – for UK Residents 

It seems that Air France-KLM is making the same play that Virgin Atlantic was for new loyalty members, with them offering a paid status match.

Flying Blue, the loyalty program of Air France-KLM has partnered with Loyalty Status Co to launch a status match offer for eligible, UK-based, frequent flyers.

That’s the important bit – this is for UK-based flyers only. Those from other territories are excluded. 

You will need a UK Passport or Driving Licence to gain access to this match.

This offer will allow customers to upgrade to Flying Blue Silver, Gold or Platinum status and enjoy unique elite benefits for 12 months. 

What can you match from?

Based on the FAQ section, there are many programmes you can match from – not just the British Airways Executive Club:

How much is the paid status match?

Unlike the Virgin Atlantic offer, this is a paid status match. thus you will need to open your wallet. The price varies on which level you are matching to

• Silver: €79
• Gold: €199
• Platinum: €399

Is there an application deadline?

If you’re interested, think, then get your skates on – KLM Boeing 787-9 – Image, Economy Class and Beyond 

Statusmatch.com notes that this can be terminated at any time.

Where can I apply?

Head to https://flyingblue.statusmatch.com/. A FAQ (which is worth a read) can be found at https://flyingblue.statusmatch.com/faq/

My thoughts

Think first – Air France A350-900 – Image, Economy Class and Beyond.

I know a lot of my readers outside the UK won’t be too happy that they can’t access this match – but there are many other opportunities out there to match your elite status with something else.

As flyers digest the news elsewhere, for some of you, this could be a perfect fit, given that it opens up a larger regional flying base via Amsterdam Schiphol or  Paris Charles De Gaulle – avoiding Heathrow Airport, whilst being able to take advantage of the networks that Air France-KLM has.

Whilst it’s tempting to whip out the credit card and hit buy, it’s also important to do a little research beforehand. As usual, ask yourself:

• How much are the fares in comparison – It’s a simple check. If your fares are more expensive, is it worth it?
• How can I earn miles going forward – it it via flying, credit card, shopping portal etc, bearing in mind that Flying Blue does have revenue-based elements
• Are the benefits what I require – be it lounge access,
• Does the network suit my needs – if you’re going to North America, you might not want to head to Europe, and then backtrack over the pond. Heading east, the move might suit you, but do you want to spend the time connecting in airports?
•  Do you need the status match – I know a lot of us go all Gollum over status matches (as we all want the precious), but are you actually going to use it? Can you drive at least the cost of the status match out of it?

It’s an exciting offer for those who can take advantage of it (especially if you’re UK-based and are annoyed at some of the other offerings out there). Certainly, those who have flexibility in their flying plans and budget should openly consider this.

For me – I’m being a bit more cautious, as I have yet to plan a lot of my requalification campaigns for the year ahead. But I am open to being tempted away, if the programme is right, along with the earning opportunities…

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