Elite status matches provide a unique opportunity for frequent flyers to extend the value of their existing benefits to other loyalty programs. Royal Air Maroc is currently offering elite status holders the chance to earn Silver, Gold, or Platinum status in their Safar Flyer program, which is part of the Oneworld alliance. This means that you can access partner benefits with dozens of airlines and enjoy valuable airline perks.
To take advantage of this offer, eligible travelers with existing elite status from select airlines can match to any of Royal Air Maroc’s three status tiers. However, there is a cost associated with each tier: Silver ($150), Gold ($450), and Platinum ($1,000 for Lite, $1,500 for Standard). If you qualify, you will receive elite status benefits through June 30, 2024.
The most appealing option is Safar Flyer Gold, which grants you Oneworld Sapphire status. This allows you to access Alaska Airlines lounges, American Airlines Admirals Clubs, and even AA’s premium Flagship Lounges, among other valuable benefits. However, the price for this option has increased significantly compared to previous promotions.
To extend your status for an additional six months, until December 31, 2024, you can either take one flight with Royal Air Maroc and earn at least one status mile or have at least one future booking linked to your Safar Flyer account by June 30, 2024.
To status match with Royal Air Maroc Safar Flyer, you need to review your eligibility. There are over 20 loyalty programs that qualify for a status match, including Delta SkyMiles and United MileagePlus. However, Oneworld programs like American AAdvantage and Alaska Mileage Plan are not eligible. Most hotel elite status levels also match to Safar Flyer Silver for a $150 fee.
To begin the status match process, you need to sign up for the Safar Flyer loyalty program for free and receive a frequent flyer number. Then, you can apply for a status match by providing your personal information and Safar Flyer number. It may take up to five business days for your loyalty status privileges to be updated.
The benefits of Safar Flyer Silver include priority check-in, preferred seating, priority waitlist on standby, and more on partner airlines. Gold status offers additional benefits such as access to business-class lounges, extra baggage allowance, and priority boarding/check-in/standby on waitlists on partner airlines. The most valuable benefit of Gold status is the business-class lounge access when flying a Oneworld carrier.
However, this offer comes with a high price tag, especially if you want to unlock Oneworld Sapphire status. It is important to consider whether you have upcoming flights on American or Alaska and if you can get enough value from Safar Flyer status to justify the cost. Keep in mind that you must have your Royal Air Maroc number on your reservation to enjoy the perks, which means you may forgo the opportunity to earn miles with another carrier.
In conclusion, the opportunity to status match with Royal Air Maroc and earn Gold status (and Oneworld Sapphire) is attractive, especially if you value lounge access. However, the high cost and limited validity of six months may make it less appealing for some travelers. Consider your upcoming flights and the value you can get from the status before deciding whether it’s worth it for you.