trustno1

Just got my GC statement which reads as follows:

Exciting new Gold Circle Rewards Coming Soon

We will shortly be launching exciting new reward opportunities exclusive to Gold Circle members. Keep an eye on your inbox over the coming days for details of these fantastic opportunities.

As I recall, people on this forum have already expressed what they would like to see change and I would generally agree with all of them. Personally I would like to see a free seat assignment on short haul and being allowed to redeem points on code shares with EY. Here's hoping. However, I have a sinking feeling it will be the usual seasonal promotion for redeeming points for Appleby vouchers. I have nothing against Appleby's by the way.

Next week I am travelling to the US and the flights are full out and back in Business. I don't remember a Nov so busy when I have travelled in the past. Probably a sign of the improving economy and to be welcomed.

DELLAS

Got that earlier too. Don't get too over excited !

starflyergold

I reckon it'll be again gift cards at Brown Thomas and Arnotts

ferg01

Extra cream crackers in the lounges?? Fingers crossed...

irishguy28

The ability to spend miles on Etihad flights.

I think you're going to win the prize

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/aer-l...g-voucher.html

gunn0r

Perhaps a 3rd type of cheese added to the lunch menu

soy

........and the winner is Arnotts gift cards, at a rate of 500pts per 25euro

starflyergold

What do I win?

irishguy28

An Arnotts gift card.

starflyergold

And today they also offered Brown Thomas gift cards:

MBDublin

This may be the only use for GC points given the almost impossible task of finding any transatlantic reward flight availability!

Danash

I havent used my points for a while as I have been flying oneworld mainly. I like to keep them as an upgrade on US flights. How has this availability been ? I usually buy an economy and upgrade...

If this is low I may just go for the BT vouchers (!)

MBDublin

I am not sure if upgrade availability is linked to reward availability. I checked by phone for a reward flight to any transatlantic destination for May and June and was told nothing has been loaded because advance revenue bookings are strong. The only option is to waitlist!

DELLAS

I think they will re join Oneworld at some stage.

irishguy28

Right now, I think it is more likely that they would join the "Etihad Partners" alliance rather than rejoining oneworld, or joining either of the other two legacy alliances. And even that seems unlikely.

When Ryanair and/or the government dispose of their shareholding, and the ownership roster changes significantly, then alliance membership may become a topic again if this is important to the new owner(s). But Aer Lingus will continue to plough its own furrow otherwise. They don't need an alliance.

Sorry for continuing the OT!