Using Frequent Flyer Miles After the United and Continental Airlines Merger

United Airlines and Continental Airlines have agreed to merge into one giant air conglomerate. By the end of this year they will become one, and keep the United name along with the Continental globe logo.

So what does this mean for your frequent flier miles at each? Are they erased, transferred, downgraded or compromised?

I asked each airline, and here is there response. The merger will be completed by the end of 2010. Early in 2011 the Continental OnePass program with merge together with United Miles. You'll need to watch your mail and email folders for news of this occurrence. At this point, the plan is for your miles to be kept and combined into one account. This is good news, because now you'll have more miles combined and a greater chance at a free flight or perk. If you had 15,000 in one account and 11,000 in another, now you'll have 26,000 combined, and possibly a free domestic flight (starting at 25,000). You also might be able to use the airport clubs of each at all hubs.

Will it be harder to book a free flight using miles?
So far, both airlines are declining to comment directly on this issue. However, they both indicate it should not be more difficult. They will have decreased their overall flight routes and combined hubs by 2011, but plenty of seats should still be available. We also do not yet know how the fees will evolve, such as fees to redeem miles for travel. I'm hoping they show some restraint with hidden charges. Also, I hope enough seats are reserved for award travel.

Using the Northwest/Delta merger as a guideline, this shouldn't cause too many headaches, but it will require more flexibility on your part to find a free seat.

What strategy should you be using now to prepare?

It shouldn't matter which card you use before the merger's completion, unless you need to cash in your free flights before next year. Both are now in the Star Alliance network, so a lot of opportunities will exist for free perks. Since all of this is "unconfirmed" as of yet, there is no reason to hold back on getting reward travel now. On the contrary, cash in while you still know the rules. If you have enough miles, use them up before next year, as we still might get hit by some surprises. A bird in the hand, is worth two grounded planes. Or... you get the point.

I couldn't get any email support from Continental, but they are available for phone calls, and they were pleasant and helpful. Expect long waits on hold, as their call volume has soared. United does offer some email support. Be patient, and try to understand what they are going through, too. After the merger is complete, and all the details are out, everyone can make a new game plan for their miles. Meanwhile, be patient, be prudent, and use those miles.