2013 AAdvantage predictions?

[griffingrowl]

Hi guys

Any predictions on any substantial changes to the AAdvantage program in 2013?

For example:

- introduction of an additional tier at 75k or 125k ?
- unlimited space-available upgrades on international flights for EXPs ?
- ConciergeKey level that is actually above EXP (similar to UA's Global Services) ?

Could AA use 2013 to step ahead with the very best mileage program in the business? Similar to the changes Starwood made in their SPG program for 2012.

[wolf539]

Originally Posted by griffingrowl

- unlimited space-available upgrades on international flights for EXPs ?

I wish...!

[pssteve]

Given a possible merger with US I'm just hoping that AA IT can keep the site up and running.

[Herb687]

Originally Posted by griffingrowl

Any predictions on any substantial changes to the AAdvantage program in 2013?

Sure, tons of predictions. But I can guarantee you that nothing to be posted in this thread will be based on anything other than hunches, idle speculation, wishful thinking, and/or drug-addled delusions.

- introduction of an additional tier at 75k or 125k ?

It's going to be 150K

- unlimited space-available upgrades on international flights for EXPs ?

Not for all EXPs; only for the new 150K EXPs

Could AA use 2013 to step ahead with the very best mileage program in the business? Similar to the changes Starwood made in their SPG program for 2012.

Replicate Starwood's philosophy for changes to SPG? You mean more overpromising and less delivering?

[Blumie]

Originally Posted by Herb687

Sure, tons of predictions. But I can guarantee you that nothing to be posted in this thread will be based on anything other than hunches, idle speculation, wishful thinking, and/or drug-addled delusions.

I predict this will prove to be the most accurate prediction in what is sure to be a lengthy thread.

I also predict that upgrades will continue to be harder to come by as AA attempts <gasp> actually to sell F seats rather than give them away. Sorry PLTs and GLDs; enjoy the ride in coach.

[aaupgrade]

No merger with US.
Dilution of benefits possibly including:

• More sold first class through better revenue management/lower premium pricing resulting in continuing to fill planes; meaning fewer available complimentary domestic upgrades
• Increased miles needed for Asia and SWP award redemption (Bring up to same levels of UA)
• Less Mile SAAver award availability and less Econ to Bus mileage/SWU upgrade availability, again resulting from better revenue management/lower premium pricing which results in full planes

[newyorkgeorge]

Anyone that thinks AA is going to provide EXPs unlimited space available International upgrades is really on some good drugs. I'm feeling beat today, where can I get some?

If anything, expect some kind of co-pay on SWUs being applied to Q type International fares. And I also agree, AA (and DL, UA, US) are finding religion in the form of actually pricing F will it can be reasonably sold.

[Herb687]

Originally Posted by newyorkgeorge

Anyone that thinks AA is going to provide EXPs unlimited space available International upgrades is really on some good drugs. I'm feeling beat today, where can I get some?

They will be available as a new BOB option on flights over 3 hours next year (the same flights that get catered with fresh food BOB in addition to shelf-stable) and will also be provided complimentary to passengers in the new 150K elite level (Executive Diamond) that is going to be announced.

[Xero]

I can see AA making CK a tier above EXP, continuing to drop the price of F to sell it rather than give it to elites (even with paid 500 mile upgrades), and continuing to reduce the availability of SAAver awards.

AA has really slipped in award availability this year, even for domestic.

[mrbrioni]

As an exp i can only wish regarding the int'l upgrades.

I definitely agree that AA will keep the price of first class seats low to try and sell rather than give to elites.

[gabrielbf]

Unlimited 2-ply TP for EXP and PLT both in the air and in the Admiral's club, via 2-ply chits received at the club entrance. Gold members will have to continue their business with the lowly 1-ply available to the unwashed masses.

I also predict a 2-ply chit hunt thread in FT.

[dayone]

Rationalization, revaluation and then hyperbolic condemnation on FT.

[lalala]

BIS, 100 segment and point qualifying EXP all get ponies for Xmas.

[FlyMeToTheLooneyBin]

Whopee! Another speculation thread!

I see AA realizing the great potential of the FT population and paying more attention to AA speculation threads.

[nrr]

AA will revamp their posting of miles and other bonuses, so that every transaction will have a line entry--no more guessing whether/when my dbleqm's have/will post.