Complete both counters

The regular flying route requires 650 Points and at least 325 Qualifying Points within the same calendar year. Reaching only the larger total is insufficient. Break the travel calendar into segments and check each operating airline, cabin and route classification before booking. The marketed flight number alone does not establish the credit.

Use the table to avoid doubling errors

An eligible continental Economy segment earns 20 points and Business earns 40. Intercontinental values are 60 in Economy, 80 in Premium Economy, 200 in Business and 400 in First. A return comprising just two intercontinental Business segments therefore produces 400 Points, not 650. Add connecting flights separately; Qualifying Points depend on the eligible operator.

Read the temporary alternative in full

Until 30 September 2026, an offer for statusless members with eligible cards costs EUR 650 or 80,000 miles, with status lasting until 28 February 2027. In Italy it covers the specified Advanzia Miles & More Mastercard Gold and UniCredit Flexia Gold or Business Miles & More cards. It is not available with any card, nor does it provide twelve months from purchase.

Calculate the incremental cost

Separate flights you would choose anyway from additional status flights. For the temporary offer, EUR 650 divided by 80,000 miles equals 0.8125 euro cents per mile. That is an arithmetic comparison between two payment methods, not a universal mileage valuation. Also consider the remaining benefit period and any cost of the required card.

Check credits before adding flights

After each trip, reconcile expected and actual credits, keeping Points, Qualifying Points and award miles separate. If a segment is missing, investigate the credit before buying a replacement flight. Status makes sense when it improves trips you will actually take. Extra connections and spending remain costs even when the final counter reaches its target.

Cash or points?
Sources & verification · Photography
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September 20, 2026

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Images adapted for format and compression. Full credits and licences are available through the links.