How can I earn Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Elite Gold status?

You can earn KrisFlyer Elite Gold status by meeting eligible spending thresholds on specific credit cards or through retail purchases and bookings.

Do airlines still reward frequent flyers?

Yes, while airlines are introducing new ways to earn status through spending, miles earned from flying remain a core component of loyalty programs.

What are the benefits of airline elite status?

Elite status often includes perks such as priority check-in, priority boarding, extra baggage allowance, and access to airport lounges worldwide.

Home / Business and Economy / Loyalty Beyond Miles: Earn Travel Status Daily

Loyalty Beyond Miles: Earn Travel Status Daily

8 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Airlines now reward daily spending, not just flights.
Credit card spending can fast-track elite travel status.
Loyalty programs offer flexibility for modern travelers.

Airport lounge access is no longer exclusive to business-class travelers or frequent flyers. Airlines are redefining loyalty by rewarding customers for their daily financial activities, not solely for the miles they accumulate. This expansion means that everyday spending, particularly through credit cards, can now contribute significantly to achieving elite status within loyalty programs.

Traditionally, earning travel status required frequent flying. However, programs like Singapore Airlines' KrisFlyer are changing this paradigm. For instance, specific credit cards allow members to achieve elite tiers by meeting spending thresholds, and retail purchases or bookings can also earn status points. This provides alternative pathways for travelers, especially those who may take longer but less frequent trips.

This evolution reflects a broader understanding of traveler needs and preferences. As international travel rebounds, airlines acknowledge that loyalty is multifaceted. By offering new ways to earn both miles and status, loyalty programs are adapting to a world where travel fits into various aspects of life, prioritizing flexibility and convenience over just flight frequency.