Last 10 years my flights have been mostly international. Last year 42 flights, a rather typical year. In the 10 years I haven't missed an originating flight, but missed several connections. After becoming Elite Plus/Platinum Elite, I always got treated well on the missed connections since they were the airline's fault. My reason for not missing flights - arrive very early. My contacts are worldwide so I live by cell phone and computer. Can do that in the airport lounge/bar/restaurant as well as at the office, and I have an excuse to avoid meetings.