I thought I'd bring up one potentially exceptional value for earning status credits if you are state-side (USA) - Alaska Airlines. In particular, there are a number of routes they operate on the west coast that have relatively inexpensive business class but have routings that result in abnormally high status credit accrual. One example that I booked recently was Los Angeles to Portland, Oregon for $569 AUD return. The routing for this is LA > Portland > Seattle > LA. Most notably this is a same day turn meaning no need to worry about hotels of the logistics behind all that. In terms of status credit accrual, well LA > Portland is 60, Portland > Seattle is 40, and Seattle to LA is 60 so 160 status credits total. Also lastly, so far as I can tell, just about every Alaska flight will attract status credits, even Saver (X) fares. I'm unsure if the same holds true for AAs basic economy flights. Speaking of West Coast, Seattle to Chicago could be another winner on account of it attracting 100 status credits each way.
So far we've discussed the West Coast of the US, but what deals can be found on the East Coast for status credits? One loophole that was around for a while was the so called NEA (North East Alliance) between American Airlines and JetBlue which allowed you to book JetBlue flights under a AA codeshare. Consequently this would allow you to earn QF status credits and benefits despite flying on JetBlue metal. Sometimes JetBlue had the better fare too meaning there could be substantial savings. Unfortunately,
effective July 21, 2023 that partnership ended due to the DOJ bringing suit against this cartel. So why do I bother posting this tidbit? Because AA wasn't satisfied with the ruling and
is appealing it. So watch out, there may be some good SC earning opportunities on the east coast in down the road.
-RooFlyer88