I've been traveling a ton lately and I'm proud to say I've now got "Silver Medallion" status with US Airways. I almost feel like it's similar to Elite status on Yelp, only better! While Elite members of Yelp get all kinds of perks like a sweet Elite badge by their name and invites to VIP events, as a s US Airways Silver Medallion member, I get to go through the first class line for security, I get bumped up to first class quite often (and I still feel like it's such a treat), and I don't have to pay for checking bags when I am bumped up to first class!
I think the airline industry is a tough one... and as a forever fan of Delta after living in Atlanta for eight years, I have to say, I'm now a two-timing gal. While I use my Delta Sky Miles Amex quite often and rack up my Delta miles that way, I seem to fly US Airways just as much if not more now that I have my new status.
Knocking on wood as I type this: I've had no major issues with flying US Air... I'm a big fan and will continue to give you my business. Please just keep the complimentary upgrades and VIP treatment coming - I kind of like feeling like a princess when I travel!