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bmi Rescinds Silver Elite Status Sign-Ups

Brian Kelly
Brian Kelly
Founder and “The Points Guy”
Since launching TPG in 2010, founder Brian Kelly has expanded the team to include a distinguished editorial staff and an extensive network of freelancer contacts from around the globe. Today, TPG reaches 11 million unique monthly visitors and more than 3 million followers across social media platforms and has offices in New York City, Charlotte and the U.K.
March 23, 2011
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3 min read
bmi Rescinds Silver Elite Status Sign-Ups
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Last week there was a rumor going around Flyertalk and the frequent flyer blogosphere that London based Star Alliance carrier bmi would automatically grant silver elite status to anyone who signed up for their frequent flyer program.

Whether it was the right decision or not, I chose not to post about it because I didn't think the offer would ultimately work, because it clearly stated that it was targeted and non-transferable. Even if it did temporarily work (we all know airline IT is not the savviest), I figured they would rescind the status anyway. Which they are apparently doing. TPG reader Michael sent me this email , which in no uncertain terms voids the Silver status promo:

Dear Michael

We're pleased to see that you recently joined our Diamond Club frequent flyer programme. However, I'm writing to you because unfortunately the link you used to join was an exclusive by invitation only offer and as noted in our terms and conditions was non transferable.

Regrettably, we will not be honouring the Silver status, and over the next few days your account will be downgraded to Blue status. Our decision is final, and we won't be entering into any further correspondence on this. On a positive note though, our frequent flyer programme is one of the most generous programmes around, and you only need to earn 16,000 membership status miles to earn a Silver membership. When you fly with us, or any of the Star Alliance airlines, you'll reach Silver status in no time at all. You'll also have access to all our offers and promotions, as well as being the first to hear about our great sale fares. We hope you'll still enjoy the benefits of your Diamond Club membership.
Regards

Keeley Downing
Diamond Club Manager

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While this sucks and the tone is rude and unprofessional, I'd recommend moving on and calling it a loss. In the miles and points game, you win some and lose some and trying to argue this decision will most likely be a waste of time. As much as you might be upset with bmi for this decision, their frequent flyer program does have some really valuable awards, so writing off this program out of anger would be a classic example of cutting off your nose to spite your face. Instead, get even and try to build up your account balance to redeem for a really expensive award. Revenge is best enjoyed when seated in a comfortable first class seat somewhere over the Pacific :-)
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