Tom Stuker, a 69-year-old frequent flyer from New Jersey, holds the esteemed title of being the world’s most frequent flyer, having accumulated a staggering 23 million miles. Stuker’s love for travel began when he purchased a lifetime pass with United for $290,000 in 1990, granting him unlimited first-class travel on any of the airline’s flights worldwide. He refers to this investment as the “best investment of my life.” This pass, unfortunately no longer available, has allowed Stuker to explore the world from seat 1B, his favorite spot on the plane.
In an effort to assist others in navigating the skies, Stuker has shared some of his insider secrets. He advises engaging with the first flight attendant you encounter upon boarding the plane, as this individual is most likely the head attendant and the best person to befriend for special treatment. Stuker claims that by pretending to know this flight attendant and thanking them for their exceptional service on a previous flight, you can receive various complimentary items.
Stuker also suggests taking advantage of the seat map app while boarding the plane. If a preferred seat becomes available and is better than the one assigned to you, he notes that the cabin crew typically wouldn’t mind if you take the opportunity to switch. Furthermore, Stuker emphasizes the importance of plane etiquette, expressing his disdain for individuals who use cell phones without headphones, particularly during business calls on speaker. To address such situations, Stuker humorously suggests requesting doughnuts if the speakerphone user plans to have everyone on the plane join their business meeting.
When it comes to luggage, Stuker advises against checking a bag, as traveling with only cabin baggage can save valuable time. He suggests making use of laundromats and stores in each town to reuse clothing and purchase any forgotten items. Additionally, Stuker occasionally takes to Instagram, using the handle @ua1flyer, where he shares moments from his journeys and highlights his favorite aspects of plane cuisine and cocktails found in the United Polaris Lounges.
Despite witnessing unfortunate incidents, including heart attack-related deaths during flights, Stuker remains dedicated to his passion for air travel. When he is not flying, Stuker is the co-founder of Automotive Training Network, an international car sales consultancy. His remarkable travel milestones have been commemorated by United, such as having a 747 named after him for reaching the 10-million-mile mark in 2011. Stuker has achieved numerous feats during his travels, including flying 1.46 million miles on 373 flights in his most successful year, which would have amounted to an astonishing $2.44 million if paid in cash.
As a member of United’s exclusive Global Services club, Stuker enjoys various privileges, such as special check-in stations, expedited security screening, access to VIP airport lounges offering fine dining, spa treatments, and sleeping quarters. Although he is entitled to have his bags carried, Stuker prefers to handle them himself to avoid feeling dependent. He possesses a unique, all-black titanium frequent-flyer card, although it is rarely necessary to present it as his reputation usually precedes him.
Despite criticism from airline “trolls,” Stuker’s wife, Darlene, who is a school teacher, shares his love for flying. They have traveled millions of miles together and even embarked on a weekend trip to London to celebrate their wedding anniversary. Stuker’s ultimate sentiment about travel is not solely about the destinations, but rather the people he meets along the journey.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
