Continental is extending its triple segments/points promotion through March 31. This promotion allows OnePass members traveling on unrestricted fares to earn up to six segments/points per roundtrip toward 2004 Elite status. Through the promotion, a traveler could potentially achieve Silver Elite status with just five segments, or Platinum Elite status with just 15.

Fly within the U.S., or between the U.S. and Canada, Micronesia, Guam or Puerto Rico in First class (A and D) for a minimum of $400, or in Economy class (Y), for a minimum fare of $400, and earn three points. Fly from the U.S. or Canada to Central or South America in Business Class (C) or Economy Class (Y) for a $500 minimum fare and get three points.

Fly from the U.S. or Canada to Europe, Asia or South America in BusinessFirst (J) for any fare amount and earn six points, or fly in BusinessFirst (D) or Economy Class (Y) for a minimum fare of $500 and earn three points.

This promotion reinforces the industry-wide shift towards a revenue-based rewards system, rather than a mileage-based system. Continental is demonstrating, however, that this shift in philosophy must not necessarily result in a diminishment of benefits for members.