In the wake of program changes that have some economy-minded members seeing red, Miles & More has reinforced its focus on premium passengers, who may literally be seeing black soon.

High-flying members of Miles & More learned at the end of 2004 about the program’s new top-tier elite status: the awkwardly named “HON Circle.”

Members who earn at least 600,000 status miles in two consecutive years on Lufthansa, Lufthansa Regional, Austrian, LOT, Air One, Air Dolomiti or United will achieve the status, represented by a sexy new black membership card (up to 100,000 miles earned by rail travel will count toward the status, as well).

Membership includes a number of new perks, possibly to woo high-spending customers away from similar programs offered by competing Asian carriers.

Members will enjoy use of the new first-class terminal and two new first-class lounges at Frankfurt, which offer gourmet meals and limousine service to departing flights.

A personal assistant will be available at both departure and arrival for each member.

Members will also receive free subscriptions to Stern, Financial Times, Focus, Capital, Welt, WamS and FAZ.

One of the most talked-about perks is the complimentary membership in a number of other programs, including Avis President’s Club, Sixt Diamond status for the member and a partner, HHonors VIP Gold status, Hyatt Platinum status, Kempinski Private Concierge, and Platinum membership in the Vodafone Stars program.

Members receive a booking guarantee up to 24 hours before departure in business class, and up to 72 hours before departure in economy class.

Members also get guaranteed award-flight availability for themselves and up to three others up to 14 days in advance, as long as there are still seats available.

In addition, members can claim Senator status for a spouse or partner.

HON members get the highest priority on waitlists, six eVouchers for upgrades, a dedicated service line and a 50-percent Executive bonus on most flights.

The status also offers its own credit card, with the annual fee paid by Lufthansa.