Want to enjoy the perks of SkyTeam elite status without years of loyalty? Vietnam Airlines is offering a status match fast track to elite status for frequent flyers from nearly 50 airlines.
With a quick application and a small fee, you can gain access to SkyTeam benefits for a full year. This is your chance to upgrade your travel experience across 19 member airlines, including Delta, KLM, Air France, and Virgin Atlantic.
Photo: Courtesy of SkyTeam
But is this promotion worth the cost? Let’s dive in.
Vietnam Airlines Status Match Promotion
Vietnam Airlines is offering a status match to frequent flyers of nearly 50 loyalty programs, including Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan, American Airlines AAdvantage, and United Airlines Mileage Plus. Depending on your current status, you could be matched to one of three tiers in Vietnam Airlines’ Lotusmiles program:
- Titanium (SkyTeam Elite)
- Gold (SkyTeam Elite)
- Platinum (SkyTeam Elite Plus)
These statuses come with significant perks, such as priority boarding, extra baggage, and lounge access—not just with Vietnam Airlines but across the entire SkyTeam network.
Fees and Eligibility
While the status match isn’t free, the fees are competitive with similar programs. The cost depends on the status level you’re matching and your region of residence:
- Titanium (SkyTeam Elite): $59 for applicants in Asia, $99 for those outside Asia
- Gold (SkyTeam Elite): $159
- Platinum (SkyTeam Elite Plus): $299
To be eligible, you must reside in one of the approved countries, which include the U.S., Canada, several European nations, and select countries in Asia and the Middle East. You must provide valid identification, such as a passport or driver’s license, to confirm your residency.
Status Perks by Tier
Lotusmiles Titanium (SkyTeam Elite):
- Priority check-in and preferred seat selection
- Priority boarding and waitlist preferences
- One extra checked bag on Vietnam Airlines flights (up to 50lbs)
- Complimentary business class upgrades (subject to availability)
Lotusmiles Gold (SkyTeam Elite):
- All Titanium benefits
- Access to Vietnam Airlines Lotus and Business lounges
- 50% bonus miles on Vietnam Airlines flights
- 1,500 bonus miles on your birthday
Lotusmiles Platinum (SkyTeam Elite Plus):
- Access to priority security lanes
- Worldwide SkyTeam lounge access on international flights
- Priority baggage handling
- Two extra checked bags on Vietnam Airlines flights (each up to 50lbs)
- Guaranteed full-fare reservation on sold-out long-haul flights with 24-hour notice
Why Consider Vietnam Airlines’ Status Match?
The fees may seem steep, especially for Platinum status, but they are in line with similar offers. For instance, Air France-KLM’s Flying Blue status match requires $299 for Gold status, which grants SkyTeam Elite Plus benefits.
Photo: SkyTeam Lounge, Vancouver International Airport. Courtesy of SkyTeam
However, the Flying Blue offer is limited to North American and European residents and only accepts 18 frequent flyer programs. Vietnam Airlines’ match, on the other hand, is open to a broader range of airlines and countries, making it an attractive option for travelers outside these regions.
How to Apply
Applications for the status match are processed through the website statusmatch.com and can take up to five business days to be approved. Once confirmed, your Lotusmiles status will be valid for 12 months.
While no official end date has been announced, the offer could close at any time, so it’s worth acting quickly if you’re considering it.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
For frequent flyers looking to tap into SkyTeam benefits, this offer from Vietnam Airlines provides a quick and relatively affordable way to do so.
With perks like lounge access, priority boarding, and extra baggage allowances across 19 airlines, this status match can elevate your travel experience. If you’re based outside North America or Europe, this may be your best chance to fast-track into SkyTeam Elite status.