Here is an alternative algorithm: fly with whichever airline is the cheapest, having a frequent flyer account on each airline. Accumulate miles separately.<p>It won&#x27;t get you a elite status, just a status slightly better than the normal flyer -- and free tickets too.<p>It will prevent you from reaching the extremes of this mile madness, like spending money just to maintain your status.<p>Bonus: when airlines merge, you get a really nice status. It may not be that interesting now with so little airlines in competition, but around year 2000 that was something regular