United Airlines has launched a new promotion aimed at attracting frequent flyers from rival carriers by offering a “status match” opportunity tied to its onboard Starlink internet service. The promotion, which targets Delta Air Lines and American Airlines customers, allows travelers with elite frequent-flier status on competing airlines to obtain a comparable tier with United for a limited period.

Status matching is a common practice in the airline industry used to entice loyalty program members to try a different carrier. Typically, participants provide proof of their current elite status with another airline, enabling them to receive similar benefits—sometimes even a status level above their existing one—on the new carrier. United’s latest campaign highlights its Starlink internet service as a key customer benefit amid growing competition over onboard connectivity.

Eligible Delta and American travelers have until October 15 to apply for United’s status match under this promotion. Once approved, participants must spend between $1,500 and $7,000 on flights and partners and complete travel within 90 days to maintain the matched status. The program encourages increased engagement with United’s network and services in exchange for premium perks.

This follows a trend among airlines offering similar status-match initiatives. For example, American Airlines recently provided a comparable promotion offering instant elevation in status, with participants needing to accrue a set number of loyalty points to retain their new level past an initial grace period. Points can be earned through flying, partner spending, or use of the airline’s co-branded credit cards. In one case, a traveler with Southwest Airlines A-List status successfully obtained American Platinum status and has already benefited from benefits like free checked bags, priority boarding, and bonus miles, though maintaining the elevated tier requires continuous activity.

In addition to the status match promotions, airlines and credit card companies are investing heavily in airport lounge expansions. American Express is planning to open a 30,000-square-foot lounge at Newark Liberty International Airport’s Terminal A, significantly larger than the initially planned 18,000 square feet. This will be Amex’s largest lounge and its only presence at all three major New York City airports once completed in 2027.

Separately, American Airlines has announced plans for a new 40,000-square-foot Admirals Club at its Charlotte Douglas International Airport hub, which is slated for a 2028 opening. American Express will also expand its footprint at London Heathrow with a second lounge there, reinforcing its emphasis on premium travel experiences.

Together, these efforts underscore how airlines and affiliated credit card companies are intensifying competition for high-value travelers through promotions, upgraded amenities, and enhanced in-flight services.