I know this has been widely blogged about, but that pesky day job of mine has simply kept me from posting much this week.  In short, I’ve been busy!  But I wanted to post about the latest news from Continental and OnePass because I think it’s important.

Earlier this week, Continental Airlines announced a couple of key changes to its OnePass elite benefits.  First, Continental will begin rewarding its Platinum Elite members who earn at least 100,000 elite qualifying miles or 120 elite qualifying points with 4 systemwide upgrades.  These upgrades are confirmable on any fare systemwide.

Additionally, Continental announced the creation of an invitation-only, revenue based “Presidential Platinum Elite” tier.  Continental went one step further and published the initial qualification requirements for the new tier which will be $30,000 dollars in annual spend in 2010.  Perks of the new super-status include top priority for upgrades and standby as well as a VIP phone line.  The status will also include an annual fee waiver on the Continental Presidential Plus MasterCard from Chase.  This card includes an annual membership in Continental’s President’s Club.

OnePass members can start earning these new benefits in 2010.