Virgin America through April 30, 2013, will match status for "qualifying" elite-level United Airlines and American Airlines frequent flyers,

the carrier announced. "Approved members will receive their new Elevate status through to April 30, 2013, and will have an opportunity to retain their status through the end of 2013 by earning sufficient status points by flying Virgin America, Virgin Atlantic and Virgin Australia," according to the airline. Virgin America this year launched Silver and Gold tiers for the most-frequent-flying members of its Elevate program.