According to this thread on FlyerTalk, Aegean Airlines--a Star Alliance member--is offering a 2,000 mile signup bonus to new members of their loyalty program, Miles & Bonus. Although this 1,000 mile increase over their previous offer may seem like a paltry sum from a Greek airline you are unlikely to fly frequently, this 2,000 mile bonus actually puts you halfway to Star Alliance Silver status and 1/10th of the way to Star Alliance Gold Status!

Aegean Airlines has one of the lowest mileage requirements for elite Star Alliance status.

About six months ago, I earned United Silver Status, my first ever airline status. And two months ago, the status finally showed up in my account. (Why the delay? See: "A Quixotic Quest to United Silver Status")

My first United flight since earning the status was Labor Day, September 3. I had booked a oneway economy award on United's direct Pittsburgh to LAX flight for 12,500 miles.

I was happy to get the only direct flight for 12,500 miles when it was selling for $600.

I'm going to talk about a dilemma I rarely face--where to credit the miles earned by flying a paid ticket.