Varig has left the Star Alliance, but the six member carriers serving Brazil — Air Canada, Lufthansa, South African Airways, SWISS, TAP Portugal and United — will match elite status of members of the Varig Smiles frequent flyer program through April 30, 2007. Smiles members who can provide evidence of their elite status can register for membership with Aeroplan, Mileage Plus, Miles & More, TAP and Voyageur to maintain Star Alliance Gold or Silver status. For more information, go to http://www.staralliance.com

And for an ongoing discussion about status matches, go to http://insideflyerus.wpengine.com/link/?276