Unlocking Alaska MVP Gold Benefits
Let’s talk Alaska Airlines. Now, I know what you’re thinking: they’re not quite up there with the “big three” US carriers, but hear me out. This Seattle-based airline has crafted a pretty impressive loyalty program that has its share of die-hard fans. The Alaska Mileage Plan is particularly unique because it awards miles based on distance flown, not how many dollars you spend. Yup, you read that right.
Now, let’s dive into the MVP Gold 100K status for 2025. This top-tier elite status is perhaps the most valuable published elite tier in the United States. What’s more? I’m here to break down how you can grab this status, what perks come with it, and whether it’s even worth your time. Keep an eye out for future posts where I’ll dissect MVP Gold 75K, MVP Gold, and MVP status to round out your Alaska knowledge.
How to earn Alaska Mileage Plan MVP Gold 100K status
First things first, let’s figure out how to rack up that coveted elite status with the Alaska Mileage Plan. Forget about segment counts; it’s all about those elite qualifying miles (EQMs). The requirements for the four Mileage Plan elite tiers for 2025 break down like this:
- Mileage Plan MVP status: 20,000 elite qualifying miles
- Mileage Plan MVP Gold status: 40,000 elite qualifying miles
- Mileage Plan MVP Gold 75K status: 75,000 elite qualifying miles
- Mileage Plan MVP Gold 100K status: 100,000 elite qualifying miles
What’s cool about the Mileage Plan is you can snag EQMs by flying with Alaska and its oneworld partners, as well as a whole range of other partner airlines. We’re talking Air Tahiti Nui, Condor, Icelandair, and Singapore Airlines, just to name a few. However, keep in mind that earning rates can vary based on whether you booked directly with a partner or through Alaska.
Also, did I mention that Alaska Mileage Plan awards EQMs for award flights? Yup, you heard it right! You’ll earn one EQM for every mile flown. So, you’re not just collecting frequent flyer miles; you’re also racking up EQMs.
And let’s not leave out the fantastic opportunity to earn EQMs through spending on the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card or the Alaska Airlines Visa® Business card. For every $3 spent on one of these cards, you bag an EQM. Mind you, there’s a cap on this accumulation: a total of 30,000 EQMs annually, which means you’ll need to spend $90,000 to max out.
Last but not least, remember that Alaska’s million miler program and the status match challenge max out at MVP Gold 75K status, which means MVP Gold 100K status is off the table through those routes.
Alaska Mileage Plan MVP Gold 100K status benefits
Now, let’s get to the good stuff—you’ll enjoy a major buffet of perks with MVP Gold 100K status. From free upgrades to extra legroom, the benefits are pretty stellar. Buckle up, because here’s the lowdown on what you can expect:
Complimentary first-class upgrades
As an MVP Gold 100K member, you’ve got unlimited complimentary upgrades on all Alaska Airlines flights—yes, unlimited! Plus, you can include a companion, provided they’re on the same reservation. Upgrades can start rolling in up to 120 hours before departure, and you sit at the front of the line above other elite tiers.
Now, if you want the inside scoop on how frequently upgrades clear, it all hinges on flight routes, days, and fare classes. Things have changed a bit, with more folks willing to cough up cash for first-class lately. So, while upgrades might not always be a sure thing, as an MVP Gold 100K member, you stand a great chance of snagging them.
oneworld Emerald status (including lounge access)
Your MVP Gold 100K status also hands you the oneworld Emerald status—an absolute gem of benefits across the oneworld alliance. Picture this: priority check-in, boarding, and access to most lounges when ticking off long-haul international flights. You’ll feel like royalty as you sip your coffee, waiting to board at the airport lounge.
MVP Gold 100K Choice Benefits (like 50,000 miles)
Here’s some icing on the cake: the choice benefits. You’ll get to pick from various perks like 50,000 bonus Mileage Plan miles, an Alaska Lounge+ membership, or even gifting MVP Gold status to someone special. Sounds like a great deal, right? You can even opt for four upgrade certificates or complimentary Wi-Fi on all your flights. Personally, the 50,000 bonus miles is a tempting choice—definitely a sweet incentive to make the leap to MVP Gold 100K status!
Complimentary Premium Class seating
What’s better than securing complimentary Premium Class seating for you and a companion? As an MVP Gold 100K member, you can snag these seats at booking time—no extra fees. Just a heads up: if you’re on a Saver fare, you’ll only be able to snag Premium Class seats on the day of your flight.
150% status mileage bonus
You’ll also reap the rewards of a hefty 150% mileage bonus on flights. So, if you take a flight covering 1,000 miles, you’re looking at a whopping 2,500 miles earned. It’s like getting a bonus paycheck—who wouldn’t want that?
Priority check-in, security, and boarding
When it comes to doing the airport hustle, MVP Gold 100K members enjoy:
- Priority check-in alongside first class
- Priority security screening
- Priority boarding, also with first class
Of all these perks, I’d say priority boarding is where it’s at. It saves you time and keeps you from joining the scrum at the gate.
Same-day flight changes & priority standby
If your plans go awry, you can make complimentary same-day flight changes, just as long as the capacity allows it. Plus, enjoy priority standby—because let’s face it, nobody likes being stuck waiting around endlessly.
Three complimentary checked bags
MVP Gold 100K members can check three bags without paying a cent. This applies to everyone in the same reservation—nice, right? And given Alaska Airlines’ 20-minute baggage guarantee, you can expect a rather swift arrival of your bags. If they aren’t delivered in time, you snag some bonus miles or a discount voucher. Win-win!
Complimentary drink & meal in economy
When you’re cruising in the economy cabin and upgrades don’t clear, you can still kick back with a complimentary drink and snack on most flights over 350 miles. On those longer flights, get a free meal, with choices including gourmet snacks and fresh meals. It’s a nice little bonus to make your travel more enjoyable.
Reciprocal elite perks on American
A delightful cherry on top of this whole Alaska experience is the reciprocal agreement with American Airlines. This means that you could potentially score first-class upgrades when flying American—definitely an enticing perk for frequent travelers.
Milestone perks selections (upgrades, bonus miles, etc.)
Don’t forget about the milestone perks program, where you can avail yourself of even more rewards as you pass yearly thresholds. This includes upgrades and bonus miles, so there’s always something to look forward to.
Is Alaska Mileage Plan MVP Gold 100K status worth it?
Let’s cut to the chase—yes, Alaska Mileage Plan MVP Gold 100K status is worth it. With Alaska now under the umbrella of oneworld and offering EQMs for award flights, the value is even greater. Between the generous mileage earning opportunities and solid upgrade perks, this status is a goldmine for frequent flyers.
Bear in mind, though, that Alaska isn’t the biggest player on the field. You’ll need to invest a decent amount of time flying with them to really reap the rewards. Fortunately, with numerous partner airlines, earning those miles is easier than you might think. Just keep in mind that you might not enjoy the same perks when you fly other airlines versus Alaska.
If you’re a regular with Alaska, MVP Gold 100K status can be an absolute dream. But if you fly with them sparingly, you might find a less rewarding experience.
Bottom line
In summary, Alaska Mileage Plan MVP Gold 100K status offers immense value. It arguably ranks as the most rewarding elite tier published in the United States. Just remember, while they may not compare to the big three in size, the perks you get from being loyal to Alaska are nothing short of impressive.
If you’re flying Alaska frequently, MVP Gold 100K is made for you—from upgrades and bonus miles to those sweet oneworld Emerald perks. And hey, if you’re looking to conquer the slopes this winter, don’t forget to check out the Val Seny ski resort for some incredible adventures.
Have you experienced the Maven Gold 100K membership? What’s been your take?