Throwback Thursday: America West FlightFund Masters Elite Status

It’s time for throwback Thursday! Today, we’re looking at America West’s Masters elite status, part of their FlightFund frequent flyer program. Masters required 50,000 flown miles to attain it, and was America West’s top status.

Take a look at the benefits of America West Masters, as taken directly from the America West website in 1996:

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Generous Mileage Bonuses

Through December 31, 1996, you’ll receive a 100% mileage bonus when you fly America West or Continental Airlines.

Plus during 1996, when you reach certain thresholds you will receive the following generous bonuses: 5,000 bonus miles at 20,000 actual flight miles, 7,500 bonus miles at 35,000 actual flight miles and a 10,000-mile bonus at 50,000 actual flight miles. And if you purchase and fly on an America West Vacations package during 1996 you’ll receive 1,000 bonus miles for a total of 1,500 miles.

First Class at Coach Price

First Class upgrade certificates may be used on an America West or Continental Airlines flight. These special certificates confirm your seat in First Class, when available, within 72 hours prior to departure. And, you may transfer an upgrade certificate to a designated traveler of your choice or you may use your upgrade for a visit to the Phoenix Club, America West’s members-only airport lounge, or for complimentary cocktails or headsets when seated in Coach. Plus, when traveling within the Continental U.S., you also have these choices:

1. Use just one Mileage Award Certificate (instead of the usual two) to upgrade your full-fare, roundtrip Coach ticket.

2. Use two Mileage Award Certificates to upgrade any other published roundtrip Coach fare ticket to First Class.

3. You and a travel companion can standby free for First Class on the day of departure. Simply present your Masters card and any published fare ticket(s) on America West or Continental Airlines.

Early Boarding Privileges

As a Masters member, you’ll be invited to board the plane early, giving you a few extra minutes to locate your seat and secure your bags before the rest of the passengers get on board.

Priority Waitlisting and Standby

If you’re flying standby, you’ll be pleased to know that as a Masters member, you’ll be given special priority for available seats when you’re travelling on an unrestricted purchased ticket.

First Class Check-In

As a Masters member, you can speed up check-in by using the First Class lines wherever available. And whenever you check in at one of our First Class dedicated check-in locations, whether you’re flying First Class or not, we will check your baggage so it is among the first to be delivered to the baggage claim area.

Executive Seating Program

Preferred status members like yourself can request a choice window or aisle seat from pre-reserved seating on America West . . . up to 4 hours prior to departure. So when you book your next flight, ask about our Executive Seating Program (ESP).

1996 Toll-Free Number

When you want to make reservations, including award travel, or need account information, take advantage of your special status by using the exclusive toll-free number, found on the back of your member card.

Check Cashing and a 50% Discount on Counter to Counter Service

Now you can cash a personal check up to $100, change permitting, at any America West ticketing location. Just present your Masters card and positive identification.

In addition, when you present your elite-member card at our small-package service counter, you will receive 50% off regular prices. For complete details on our generous offer, call America West Premier Pak at 1-800-228-7862. Restrictions apply.

Phoenix Club Discount

Enjoy 2,500 bonus miles and generous savings on your club membership or next renewal with your VIP application. Then choose from over 20 club locations worldwide.

Special Treatment and FlightFund Partners

All of our FlightFund partners recognize your elite status, and they have put together the their own group of exciting benefits expertly designed for your business or leisure travel needs. Your VIP Portfolio has more details on these benefits.

Double Upgrades and Free Upgrades from Radisson

During 1996, our preferred FlightFund hotel partner, Radisson, is offering you a great way to earn double miles, complimentary upgrades and a free stay. More details on these exciting offers can be found in your VIP Portfolio. To make reservations at Radisson, call 1-800-333-3333.