The end of the year is approaching, and veteran flyers know that it’s time to make sure elite status is locked in for 2005. In the past, that usually created the infamous “mileage run” – an effort to fly as many (perhaps unnecessary) cheap flights as possible to rack up elite-qualifying miles. With a recent trend toward limiting qualifying miles on discounted fares, the mileage run phenomenon has subsided somewhat. Nevertheless, the enticement of elite benefits is still irresistible to many.

To that end, United Mileage Plus has announced a promotion to allow members to earn twice their usual number of elite-qualifying miles through the end of the year.

Members who opt to register and pay a one-time fee of $150 will earn double elite qualifying miles or segments on all paid, qualifying United, United Express and Ted flights through Dec. 15.

The caveat (and you knew this was coming): Flights taken in S and T classes – heavily-discounted, heavily-restricted economy fares – do not qualify. These are but two of United’s discount-economy fares, however. Other cheap seats, like those in L or W classes, do qualify. Most of United’s e-fares – it’s weekly discounted fares advertised in emails to members – fall into the W category, and are therefore eligible. Still, it would behoove the savvy member to be absolutely certain his or her flight qualifies when booking.

United ran a similar promotion last year (for the slightly lower price of $100), which proved enormously popular among members.

For more information or to register, visit http://www.united.com.