When you earn elite status with one member carrier, your privileges extend across all partner airlines in the alliance. Compare lounge privileges, baggage exceptions, and priority airport perks across Star Alliance, oneworld, and SkyTeam.
Star Alliance structures reciprocal loyalty status across two global recognition tiers: Silver and Gold. Star Alliance Gold provides lounge entry worldwide regardless of cabin class.
oneworld operates a three-tier reciprocal recognition system: Ruby, Sapphire, and Emerald. Top-tier Emerald status uniquely opens First Class international airport lounges to members flying in any cabin class.
SkyTeam provides two reciprocal status tiers: SkyTeam Elite and SkyTeam Elite Plus. Elite Plus unlocks universal SkyPriority airport pathways spanning expedited check-in, security, boarding, and international lounge entry.
Across all three alliances, mid-to-top tier status (Star Alliance Gold, oneworld Sapphire/Emerald, SkyTeam Elite Plus) grants lounge admission with one traveling companion. Both passengers must be traveling on a departures flight marketed and operated by an alliance member carrier.
United Airlines and American Airlines do not grant complimentary lounge entry to their own United MileagePlus Gold or AAdvantage Platinum cardholders on purely domestic itineraries. However, non-US partner cardholders (e.g., Lufthansa Senator or British Airways Silver) traveling domestically within the US DO receive full lounge access.
Reciprocal mileage and elite qualifying points vary substantially by booking class code. Deep-discount basic economy tickets may earn reduced or zero elite points on partner carriers, while flexible full-fare business fares offer maximum status credit.