US Airways Dividend Miles (Pre-2005 America West merger) - America West and US Airways Announce Changes to Expanded Frequent Flyer Programs

http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/050926/lam080.html?.v=24

Press Release Source: America West Airlines

America West and US Airways Announce Changes to Expanded Frequent Flyer Programs
Monday September 26, 3:34 pm ET
Loyalty Programs Now Include Network Reach of America West and US Airways, Will Fully Combine Into One Dividend Miles Program in Spring 2006

PHOENIX, Sept. 26 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- America West (NYSE: AWA - News) and US Airways (OTC Bulletin Board: UAIRQ - News) today announced details of immediate changes to their joint frequent flyer programs, FlightFund and Dividend Miles, resulting from the merger between US Airways and America West. A new program, which will launch in spring of 2006, will retain the name Dividend Miles. Members of FlightFund, the America West frequent flyer program, and Dividend Miles, the frequent flyer program for US Airways, will be able to redeem and earn miles on flights operated by either airline beginning Oct. 5, and their outstanding mileage balance will be automatically combined and integrated into the new Dividend Miles program in spring of 2006.

"By combining America West's award-winning FlightFund and Elite program with the worldwide reach of US Airways and the Star Alliance, we believe that we have created the best frequent flyer program in the nation for our customers," said Scott Kirby, executive vice president, sales and marketing. "As a low-cost carrier with nationwide and international service, US Airways offers what may be the only frequent flyer program that our customers will ever need."

Beginning Oct. 5, Dividend Miles and FlightFund members will be able to earn and redeem miles to any destination served by America West or US Airways. Additional Dividend Miles and FlightFund highlights include:

-- A 500-mile bonus for booking online at either americawest.com or
usairways.com
-- No more Saturday-night stay requirement for Dividend Miles awards
-- A single worldwide award chart with award travel beginning at 25,000
miles:



Roundtrip award One Coach-Class One First-Class
destinations Award or Business-Class
Award

Within and between Mileage Saver: 25,000 Mileage Saver: 50,000
the continental US Premium: 50,000 Premium: 100,000
and Canada

Between the Mileage Saver: 30,000 Mileage Saver: 60,000
continental US Premium: 60,000 Premium: 120,000
or Canada and the
Caribbean, Central
America or Mexico

Between North Mileage Saver: 35,000 Mileage Saver: 70,000
America* and Hawaii Premium: 70,000 Premium: 140,000

Between North
America* or Hawaii Mileage Saver: 50,000 Mileage Saver: 80,000
and Europe Premium: 100,000 Premium: 160,000

*North America includes the continental US, Canada, the Caribbean,
Central America or Mexico.


-- In order to be able to provide members with the greatest number of
award seats possible, and also due to the merged airline's expanded
route network, the America West short-haul award and the USAirways.com
awards have been replaced by a single, worldwide redemption chart with
travel beginning at 25,000 miles.
-- For additional information on the new Dividend Miles program including
award-travel charts, please visit www.usairwaysinfo.com and click on
the Frequent Flyer section.

For FlightFund Elite and Dividend Miles Preferred Members, a new Preferred Program:

-- Beginning Oct. 5, Preferred and Elite members in either FlightFund or
Dividend Miles may receive complimentary first-class upgrades on
eligible flights operated by both US Airways and America West.
-- Miles and segments flown on flights operated by both America West and
US Airways for all of 2005 will count toward Preferred or Elite
status.
-- America West Platinum Elite members will be elevated to Chairman's
Elite status through February 28, 2006.
-- Preferred and Elite programs combine the best of advance upgrade
options from both programs by retaining the Dividend Miles seven-day
window for Chairman's Preferred level and the FlightFund two-day
window for the Silver Preferred level:



Qualifications Silver Gold Platinum Chairman's
and benefits Preferred/ Preferred/ Preferred/ Preferred/
Elite Elite Elite Elite

Unlimited Confirm Confirm Confirm Confirm
upgrades to anytime on anytime on anytime in anytime in
First Class in Full Coach Full Coach advance on advance on
North America, or 2 days or 3 days Full Coach Full Coach
Latin America before before or 4 days or 7 days
or the departure departure before before
Caribbean on other on other departure departure
fares fares on other on other
fares fares

2006 Preferred
Qualifying
Miles 25,000 50,000 75,000 100,000

2006 Preferred
Qualifying
Segments 30 60 90 120

Preferred
Flight Bonus 25% 50%* 75%* 100%

Unlimited
Preferred
Upgrades Yes Yes Yes Yes

Private
Connections
Reservations
Service Yes Yes Yes Chairman's
Preferred
Liaison Desk*

Priority
Check-in
and Boarding Yes Yes Yes Yes

Preferred
Seating on
US Airways Yes Yes Yes Yes

Blackout Dates No No No No

Preferred
Seating Yes Yes Yes Yes

Priority
Standby Yes Yes Yes Highest
priority

Benefits listed begin Oct. 5 unless otherwise indicated
*Benefits effective early 2006
Benefits are subject to change at the discretion of US Airways.



US Airways and America West have joined together to create the fifth largest domestic airline. US Airways, US Airways Shuttle and the US Airways Express operate approximately 4,000 flights per day and serve more than 225 communities in the U.S., Canada, Europe, the Caribbean and Latin America. This press release and additional information on US Airways can be accessed at www.usairways.com or www.americawest.com.

US Airways is a member of the Star Alliance, which was established in 1997 as the first truly global airline alliance to offer customers global reach and a smooth travel experience. The other members are Air Canada, Air New Zealand, ANA, Asiana Airlines, Austrian, bmi, LOT Polish Airlines, Lufthansa, Scandinavian Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Spanair, TAP Portugal, Thai Airways International, United and VARIG Brazilian Airlines. South African Airways and SWISS will be integrated during the course of the next 12 months. Overall, the member carriers offer more than 15,000 daily flights to 795 destinations in 139 countries. (AWAG)

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Source: America West Airlines

Overall I'm happy with this. I think making a platinum level at 75K was expected, but it's a nice gesture to give HP Elites CP status until February.

Also, does this mean the 20K domestic award for preferred members is going away? Also, is the online booking bonus going to be only 500 miles from now on?

:td: Regarding only a 25% bonus for SP's.

CP segments up from 100 to 120 :td:
GP bonus down from 100% to 50% :td:

They posted a link to this guide on the website, but when I looked it was gone from the US site. It's still on the HP site. It's a bit easier to read here:

http://www.usairwaysinfo.com/usair/default.aspx

Don't know if anyone else has been wondering, but I called the GP desk and got an answer to the question that was bothering me -- whether you will need 120 segments this year for CP or just 100, like in the past. According to GP desk, "the merger is effective November 15, so if you're already working towards 100 segments this year and get 100 by the end of the year, CP will be good through Feb. 2007." But to qualify through Feb. 2008, you'd have to get 120 segments next year. Nice to get an easy answer from customer service! :D



Overall I'm happy with this. I think making a platinum level at 75K was expected, but it's a nice gesture to give HP Elites CP status until February.

Also, does this mean the 20K domestic award for preferred members is going away? Also, is the online booking bonus going to be only 500 miles from now on?

:td: Regarding only a 25% bonus for SP's.

Hmm. Trying to find something good in this. Bonuses decrease and awards cost more miles. :(

Not a good start for elites in this new company.

So, does anyone have a clue as to whether there will be segment carryover for over 120 segments in the new plan?

Larry

LOL! Once again I was proven right, and it looks as thought some people need to start munching on crow. ;)

"This would also seem to indicate that the Silver/Gold level elite bonuses on the US side will be reduced to 25/50%. I can't see HP giving 100% bonues to Gold, Plat, and CP. Unless HP plans on bringing back the 125% bonus for top tier elites, there are going to be some pissed off Silvers and Golds."

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showpost.php?p=4545758&postcount=21

Any of you care to bet against me on this thread.

Enjoy the promos while you can. (http://http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=466183)

Not liking the looks of this so far.
120 Segs to requalify for CP seems kind of high. I'm good til '07, but still that seems a tad much.
There does not look to be much additional upside in being CP down the road.

LOL! Once again I was proven right, and it looks as thought some people need to start munching on crow. ;)

"This would also seem to indicate that the Silver/Gold level elite bonuses on the US side will be reduced to 25/50%. I can't see HP giving 100% bonues to Gold, Plat, and CP. Unless HP plans on bringing back the 125% bonus for top tier elites, there are going to be some pissed off Silvers and Golds."
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not only that, but contrary to the last "reassuring" spokesman interview, miles earned prior to October 5th in the separate programs will not be combined for '06 elite calculation purposes.

Let's just hope it stays that way! ^

So, does anyone have a clue as to whether there will be segment carryover for over 120 segments in the new plan?

Larry


I'm praying I can squeeze one more year out of the miles carryover. I'm betting it will go away after the program merger and I'm not too hopeful for this year. :(

It was fun while it lasted. Looks like I'll be doing PIT-ATL for the foreseeable future anyway, so I guess it's time to look for DL comps/challenges.

For calendar year 2006 will one earn the benefits for their status level under the rules they earned the level or the new rules for that level?

Two questions:

1.) The future of the two Transatlantic 7-day advance Envoy upgrades for CP's?

2.) No details on companion upgrades.

Loss of off-peak awards=bad.

Dilution of elite levels=bad.

The elite level thing alone is going to drive my remaining US business to United (and the right way to handle it is to merge Plat and CP into the existing CP criteria for next year--cranking up the requirements on the top teir even further is just a kick in the pants--especially given that little part of the business called "shuttle."

And that's just from the FF program standpoint--nevermind the E+/Power/degredation of F aspect of the whole thing.

Thus far, Doogie does not impress me.

not only that, but contrary to the last "reassuring" spokesman interview, miles earned prior to October 5th in the separate programs will not be combined for '06 elite calculation purposes.

Actually I think they will:

-- Miles and segments flown on flights operated by both America West and US Airways for all of 2005 will count toward Preferred or Elite status.

Now I only get 25% bonus mileage? :td: Starting off on the wrong foot here.

How about the international upgrade awards? How many points and on what fares? Will CPs still get transatlantic upgrades? Will they still hand out the DM000087's by the fistful?

Actually I think they will:

-- Miles and segments flown on flights operated by both America West and US Airways for all of 2005 will count toward Preferred or Elite status.

Where did you find this? Can you post a link to the page? Thanks!

Where did you find this? Can you post a link to the page? Thanks!


No problem...it's in the link (http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/050926/lam080.html?.v=24) in the OP of this thread, in the bulleted list just before the Qualifications and Benefits table.

This is a major kick in the backside for US golds. It makes most other airline's FF program rewards at the 50k EQM threshold much more attractive - more rewards for less flying.

I had been thinking of pushing most of my flying back to US next year. I don't think I'm going to qualify for CP or 1k next year, so with these changes I'm starting to think I'd be better off getting Prem Exec on UA instead. :td: :td: :td: :mad:

Don't know if anyone else has been wondering, but I called the GP desk and got an answer to the question that was bothering me -- whether you will need 120 segments this year for CP or just 100, like in the past. According to GP desk, "the merger is effective November 15, so if you're already working towards 100 segments this year and get 100 by the end of the year, CP will be good through Feb. 2007." But to qualify through Feb. 2008, you'd have to get 120 segments next year. Nice to get an easy answer from customer service! :D

I just noted this for someone else on the thread, but usairways.com states that all the miles and segments flown on America West and US Airways will count towards status beginning on 10/5/05. And the full year 2005 miles and segments will be considered between what you accrued on HP FlightFund and US Airways Dividend Miles in 2005 to give you the highest status possible in the Dividend Miles Preferred program period beginning Spring of 2006. In other words, you get a full year review in both programs for status next year.

Also the CHP increase to 120 segments is effective on 1/1/06 next year.

I looked at the US club section and it looked like all elite members will pay the same amount of $300.

CP segments up from 100 to 120 :td:
GP bonus down from 100% to 50% :td:

As someone who depends upon and thus flys (extra) segments to get there, this makes me mad.... but I only reached CP this year because of the challenge so I'm not even sure I'd have made 100 segments... although my travel is picking up so maybe.

I think the only negative about CP is once you have it, it would be hard to live with out!

Anyway, just echoing the :td:

Edited to add:
The more I read and the more I think about this, it seems that gold (which I'll most likely be after feb 07) is relegated to basically Silver and that silver is basically worthless. Having plats just means that one more group will clear before golds... I could understand having a plat level during the transition but are there any other programs with 4 levels?

As a GP who would do about 60k miles a year, I guess I'm not really happy about this new stuff. In fact it looks like GPs take the brunt of the suffering.

The most important thing to me--unlimited upgrades 3 days in advance s/a--remains, but it seems like the entire list of other benefits has been reduced:

--my bonus mileage is HALVED from 100 to 50%. That's pretty serious, actually. HALVED.
--I can't get a 20K award, which I use really often in fact. Everything is 25k.
--I also enjoyed cheap Bermuda awards which aren't to be anymore. 30k still isn't bad, but when my bonus mileage is HALVED at the same time the award thresholds are raised, the net effect is a significant loss.
--there will be two tiers ahead of me instead of just one. It was nice to know that only CPs got the upgrades before me, and that there was a pretty big difference between a CP and a GP. But now we have an entirely new realm of preferreds that will snag even more seats before the GP window opens. Will I ever be able to upgrade a companion under this new scheme as a GP?
--if I ever drop to SP, I'm not sure what the benefit is except a VERY occasional upgrade only for myself and perhaps the bonus mileage.

Basically, it seems that GP is the new SP, and SP is like a bone thrown to those people who are just repeat enough that the airline doesn't want to lose them but aren't good enough customers to warrant much attention.

Luckily I've qualified for CP under the 6689 promo so none of this really matters for me next year, but I'll certainly be watching this board and others' comments on how this dilution of GP really manifests itself. The power ports didn't bother me much, the lack of hot meals really didn't bother me much; but this real reduction in benefits is starting to piss me off.

I was treated really well on AA this year, and I won't forget it.

While I don't agree with all the changes and am still really confused about the future of transatlatic upgrades for chairman's, companion upgrades and also mileage upgrade awards - I think one thing Gold's need to remember is that just because there are two tiers above them doesn't mean there will be that much of a change in upgrades. If there are enough seats to upgrade all Golds and CP's now, then there will still be with three tiers. The only time it will make a difference is when CP's, Plats, and only some GP's get upgraded (earlier on the list, higher fare basis - whatever decides it). But then again, that's only fair that a 75K flyer trumps a 50K flyer

my bonus mileage is HALVED from 100 to 50%. That's pretty serious, actually. HALVED.


When HP sliced the FlightFund bonus a few years ago, Silvers were droped from 50% to 25%, and Golds from 100% to 50%. Platinums only went from 125% to 100%. Now HP Plats are losing another 25%.

US Plat is a serious ripoff. An AA Plat can fly 25k less miles and still earn more bonus miles than a US Plat.

I was treated really well on AA this year, and I won't forget it.

Did you do a Plat challenge?

I think one thing Gold's need to remember is that just because there are two tiers above them doesn't mean there will be that much of a change in upgrades.

Not necessarily. Those non-CPs who flew 75,000-95,000 miles a year now get upgraded in advance before GPs. I bet there are a fair number of these people. I hate this primarily because I hate the gate lottery.

Plus, don't forgett we have all of the HP elites coming in too. So the pool is both bigger and broken up differently.

I do agree 75kers should, in principle, be upgraded more than 50kers. But I like things the way they are. ;)

It sucks for me as I was planning on dropping from CP go GP this year, but now I'll be dropping two levels. But it does make sense to have a level between 50K and 100K.

Did you do a Plat challenge?

Sure did. I won't keep it this year, but I know I can get it back fairly quickly and painlessly, and my earned upgrades are still there.

Say what you will about paying for upgrades, but (a) it thins out the ranks of potential upgraders and (b) there are no surprises with AA's system.

Oh besides the int'l upgrade cert and mileage ambiguity, companion upgrades, I have another question - will Premium Awards still be upgradable into the P bucket like before?

Judging from the comments in this thread, it sounds like the majority of the elites are NOT happy about some of the changes to the new program. I'm not thrilled about the 120 CP Segment qualification criteria and the lack of flexibility in the award program (e.g., no more 20 k awards - no thought/mention of offering one way awards ala Alaska Airlines). Let's face it, the FF program should ATTRACT flyers - not send them to other carriers.

In the prior company email to elites, an email address was provided - and we were asked for patience and understanding about bumps in the road as the new entity unfolds. Am going to assume that these program details are not all set in stone and that if enough of the people that keep this new airline flying voice their opinion, perhaps some of the bumps in the road will be ironed out. I plan on using that email address.

Any hints about mileage carryover?

So far the new U has stripped powerports & devalued FF grades. Here's a chance to not screw up totally by continuing the carryover.

AA is looking better and better.

I was hoping that the 75K tier would include what is currently CP desk access. That would mitigate some of the other negatives for me since i am within striking distance of "Platinum" and will probably be about the same next year ~75K.

Correct me if I am wrong but it seems that hitting 75K this year gets you bupkas if you are currently in US dividend miles as opposed to flight funders who get CP until Feb. Or am I reading this wrong... :confused:

Humm... Let's see. An airline recently rated the worst domestic airline sets the level of their highest Elite level at a minimum of 20% more than their competition and they want me to fly them?

Yeah…..right.

Humm... Let's see. An airline recently rated the worst domestic airline sets the level of their highest Elite level at a minimum of 20% more than their competition and they want me to fly them?

Yeah…..right.

Yeah, I keep looking longingly at my UA 2P card, and thinking that it's going to be a 1P card before the end of the year if I do enough Star mileage. And knowing that it's in E+. And real service in domestic F. And so forth.

In essence, Gold is even more useless to me (flying a bunch between/from areas with large concentrations of not-quite-CP type golds currently)--the addition of the extra level means that I might as well toss all that goodness at UA.

Don't know if anyone else has been wondering, but I called the GP desk and got an answer to the question that was bothering me -- whether you will need 120 segments this year for CP or just 100, like in the past. According to GP desk, "the merger is effective November 15, so if you're already working towards 100 segments this year and get 100 by the end of the year, CP will be good through Feb. 2007." But to qualify through Feb. 2008, you'd have to get 120 segments next year. Nice to get an easy answer from customer service! :D

I don't know. The US web site says...
"A new Preferred Program with four membership levels will debut in Spring 2006 with more benefits to be announced soon. When we launch the new program, we will be awarding status based on the combined elite qualification miles and segments you earn in 2005 in both programs to provide you with the highest staus possible. "

To me this says if you are currently a CP and do 100 segments in 2005, you will be a Plat come March 1st.


But if you were a GP and just qualified as a CP (promo or normal way) and your card now says good until 2007 you may be OK.

Too confusing now, too many unknowns.

I looked at the US club section and it looked like all elite members will pay the same amount of $300.

The Q&A says the new pricing is effective 10/5...but the web site has them already loaded. Same old crap of saying one thing and doing another.

I assume that if I'm already ticketed for a US flight after Oct 5 and my UA number remains in the reservation, I won't get UA credit?

I assume that if I'm already ticketed for a US flight after Oct 5 and my UA number remains in the reservation, I won't get UA credit?

You will, unless it's actually an HP flight.

See here (http://www.usairwaysinfo.com/usair/content/frequent-flyer/overview.aspx) : "At this point, United Mileage Plus members are not able to earn or redeem miles on flight segments operated by America West."

Yeah, I keep looking longingly at my UA 2P card, and thinking that it's going to be a 1P card before the end of the year if I do enough Star mileage. And knowing that it's in E+. And real service in domestic F. And so forth.
And you'll get a 100% mileage bonus as a PremEx! :D

The more I read and the more I think about this, it seems that gold (which I'll most likely be after feb 07) is relegated to basically Silver and that silver is basically worthless. Having plats just means that one more group will clear before golds... I could understand having a plat level during the transition but are there any other programs with 4 levels?

I didn't think about the upgrade angle. Man, Golds and Silver are really getting screwed in this deal. A 50% reduction and decreased upgrade opportunities.

Who can be happy... there are actually no advantages to Preferred members with the merger - other than access to America West flights. I will look forward for some improvements to the new program before the new year kick-in or I think they will become a low-cost low-service airline (isn't that what they want?), by the end of the year.

I know that right now that as a PremEx I earn 100% bonus also on US flights, but wait till january when UA programs are updated... Competition is too heavy for US to send their own 50k frequent flyers to UA. There will definitely be an adjustement there.

Some of the improvements I would welcome: (I hope US is listening)
- 125% mileage bonus for CP
- Bring back the free US-Club membership for CPs
- 2 SWUs for PPs, 2 SWUs for CPs with 2 more for each 25k on US every year.
- 50% dicounted companion awards for GP/PP/CP

What about a mileage bonus on AC? I know it's not just up to US to decide that but since AC own part of the new airline, that's something I can conceive.

I hope UA will bring a double EQM promotion by the end of the year so I can achieve 1K (I am at 60k with them right now); one of the reason I went with US also was for the lower awards and better availability than UA, and because only US fly to my home base.

Gosh, after reading US's email today and seeing the above posts, I feel like I just ran through a cornfield backwards naked :eek:

This mostly comes from just qualifying to be a GP thanks to US's elite promo. GPs look to get hit the hardest. Heck, even while SP took cuts they at least get upgrades 2 days out instead of 1. I don't think GP gained anything (As of yet anyways).

From my perspective, I'm going to hold out and see if US holds true to their promise of a new award program in spring 2006. Perhaps it will be as wondrous as all of the anniversary promos they offered to us this year (smirk).

One of the CP perks could be that you get upgraded to pilot every now and then. Just think... this is one heck of an upgrade and US will save money by cutting back on crew. GP's will prolly have the lavatory seat (yes, inside the lavatory) set aside as a preffered customer :)

Okay okay... enough poking fun/venting. I've really thought about many of the changes and what my other options could be. As it stands now, I'm going to ride out my GP status through 2006. At the end of the year, if I don't like the new prog. I'm off to United or growing wings. Although, I'm keeping my fingers crossed and will have faith in HP.

- GH

(PS... anyone know how to shuck corn?)

There will definitely be an adjustement there.

Some of the improvements I would welcome: (I hope US is listening)
- 125% mileage bonus for CP
- Bring back the free US-Club membership for CPs
- 2 SWUs for PPs, 2 SWUs for CPs with 2 more for each 25k on US every year.
- 50% dicounted companion awards for GP/PP/CP


While I hope you're right, I have to say don't hold your breath. This is HP's decision and once they're in cheap mode there's no going back.

While I hope you're right, I have to say don't hold your breath. This is HP's decision and once they're in cheap mode there's no going back.

I know, but according to their document:

[...]We have introduced a new award chart, a new FlightFund Elite level and several new member benefits.[...]

I haven't seen one, so they must be to come :D

I know, but according to their document:

[...]We have introduced a new award chart, a new FlightFund Elite level and several new member benefits.[...]

I haven't seen one, so they must be to come :D


Trust me I can appreciate your pain.. as a current HP Gold with 88 segments.. and will not have 90 until AFTER OCT 5, I have no idea what limbo land I will fall in... Hopefully if not Platinum.. it will be Chairman's until Feb of next year. I think I will end up with like 102.. so not quick Chairman's :( Bad HP/US

Well, we are all gonna lose a little... it is the power of HP's management.

Well, we are all gonna lose a little... it is the power of HP's management.

You only lose if you sit by an take it.

Also, does this mean the 20K domestic award for preferred members is going away? Also, is the online booking bonus going to be only 500 miles from now on?

Per US website under 'News and Offers':

Online Booking Bonus 500 Miles Ongoing
Beginning October 1, 2005, you’ll earn 500 bonus when purchasing tickets at usairways.com. Preferred members are enjoying exclusive benefits such as unlimited E-Upgrades, Preferred boarding and much more. Plus, you’ll save between $5 and $30* on every ticket!

Also... looks like they took away the 100 mile flight check in offer.

-GH

I fail to understand the true benefit of the Silver level now.

Let's start with Upgrades. How many Silvers believe they have a shot at upgrading now? Come on, raise your hands. Think of those eight-seat 757's. Advance upgrades seem 100% out of the question given the low level of inventory allocated to that bucket. And at the gate? Ugh.

Priority boarding? OK - as a silver, one gets zone 2. But, they've eliminated preboarding for First Class and elites; and the whole "now boarding zones 1 and 2" cattle call doesn't even make a CP feel elite.

At least there are still elite check-in lanes at the airport.

Hopefully I'll eke out one more year of Chairman's to try out "the new" US Airways.

But, they've eliminated preboarding for First Class and elites. . . .

Where did you find that piece of information?

I fail to understand the true benefit of the Silver level now.

Let's start with Upgrades. How many Silvers believe they have a shot at upgrading now? Come on, raise your hands. Think of those eight-seat 757's. Advance upgrades seem 100% out of the question given the low level of inventory allocated to that bucket. And at the gate? Ugh.

Priority boarding? OK - as a silver, one gets zone 2. But, they've eliminated preboarding for First Class and elites; and the whole "now boarding zones 1 and 2" cattle call doesn't even make a CP feel elite.

At least there are still elite check-in lanes at the airport.

Hopefully I'll eke out one more year of Chairman's to try out "the new" US Airways.

Ok, I disagree with this one.

1.) Zone 1 and 2 - even if there are a lot of people still ensures an overhead bin. Not to mention that a good GAs when there are a lot of people to break up Zoens 1 and 2.

2.) Preferred check-in and security are huge benefits.

3.) 25% bonus is still better than nothing.

4.) Upgrades = as a silver on the old US I am 12 for 15 this year on upgrades. Yes, the new HP elites will add some competition but a lot of east coast routes, esp. ex-northeast southbound routes will see few west-coast HP flyers on them.

5.) Preferred Phone Line.

6.) Overall recognition.

Well, we are all gonna lose a little... it is the power of HP's management.
And based on the consistent responses in this thread, maybe the one that will lose the most is the new US!

You're right, the power is there - to either keep their best flyers happy or screw things up so mightily that they implode in the end... :(

Where did you find that piece of information?


I don't think that it's new information. With the zone boarding process, most GA's now don't give PRE-boarding to First Class and preferreds before general boarding of other areas.

The last 30 or so segments I've been on call preboarding for wheelchairs and UM's. Then, they call (in most cases) zones 1 and 2 together, eliminating the separate FC boarding; and eliminating the boarding of elite-levels only.

Do others hear different things?

I don't think that it's new information. With the zone boarding process, most GA's now don't give PRE-boarding to First Class and preferreds before general boarding of other areas.

The last 30 or so segments I've been on call preboarding for wheelchairs and UM's. Then, they call (in most cases) zones 1 and 2 together, eliminating the separate FC boarding; and eliminating the boarding of elite-levels only.

Do others hear different things?

Is there anyone in Zone 1 or 2 who is not either in FC or elite? I've always assumed that "Zones 1 and 2" was just a less overtly snotty way of saying "people we like more, get on first."

But then, I thought that way before I made SP or GP. :)

I don't think that it's new information. With the zone boarding process, most GA's now don't give PRE-boarding to First Class and preferreds before general boarding of other areas.

The last 30 or so segments I've been on call preboarding for wheelchairs and UM's. Then, they call (in most cases) zones 1 and 2 together, eliminating the separate FC boarding; and eliminating the boarding of elite-levels only.

Do others hear different things?

The only folks in zones 1 & 2 are those who are in First class, are elite, or have the BoA Visa signature card. So in essence preboarding is there.

I just read through this whole thread, and I'm not clear on if we're still going to roll over additional miles. I will have 20-30K additional miles after qualifying for CP. Will those roll over? Will I now qualify for CP with 120K miles?

Sigh....overall, I don't get the warm fuzzies.

I just read through this whole thread, and I'm not clear on if we're still going to roll over additional miles. I will have 20-30K additional miles after qualifying for CP. Will those roll over? Will I now qualify for CP with 120K miles?

Sigh....overall, I don't get the warm fuzzies.
My guess will be no. HP didn't have rollover and I certainly wouldn't put it pas them to continue that with the new US Airways.

Lance

LOL! Once again I was proven right, and it looks as thought some people need to start munching on crow. ;)

"This would also seem to indicate that the Silver/Gold level elite bonuses on the US side will be reduced to 25/50%. I can't see HP giving 100% bonues to Gold, Plat, and CP. Unless HP plans on bringing back the 125% bonus for top tier elites, there are going to be some pissed off Silvers and Golds."

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showpost.php?p=4545758&postcount=21

Any of you care to bet against me on this thread.

Enjoy the promos while you can. (http://http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=466183)

Byrd I also tried. If a recall an earlier quote from Doug, "We'll be combining the best features of both programs." More like including the worst (e.g. 500 booking bonus, reduced award mileage% and eliminating the best (e.g. 500 mile award trips). Goodbye mileage promos after the introductory one.

I'm far less upset about the addition of the Platinum level than I am about GPs' status bonus dropping from 100% to 50%. That's huge! And it bites big time! I can't even say that people who come close to making GP stand to gain by getting bumped up to Platinum status ahead of Golds, since their mileage bonus will still be falling 25%. Their upgrade chances will only increase marginally, since they'll still be behind the CP's.

I'm going to stick around for one more year to see what additional changes (good or bad) the next year brings. But if the mileage program continues the way it has been announced, I will seriously consider switching my loyalty to UA.

Now hold on aminute everybody. We are gaining the Freddies "Best Elite Program" three years running. I'm sure once this is shoved down your throat you'll vote just like the HP flyers who supposedly vote for these things and also had to digest the cutbacks. :rolleyes:

I don't think that it's new information. With the zone boarding process, most GA's now don't give PRE-boarding to First Class and preferreds before general boarding of other areas.

The last 30 or so segments I've been on call preboarding for wheelchairs and UM's. Then, they call (in most cases) zones 1 and 2 together, eliminating the separate FC boarding; and eliminating the boarding of elite-levels only.

Do others hear different things?

HP adopted a system a while back in which pre-boarding included those who need extra time, people with children under 5 and first class passengers only.

Following that is Group 1 and "all elite members." I believe Group 1 only includes elite members, but I'm not certain about that. I think just in case you're elite and it is not printed on your boarding pass, they say "all Plat, Gold and Silver Elite members" so that you're clear you can board.

It seems to work when agents follow it, which most do, though most won't tell a Group 1 elite member to stand aside when they try to pre-board with first class. It is fun to watch, though, when they do! :p

Coming soon to a concourse near you. . . :)

Found this article in the Washington Post - thought you all may enjoy reading. It talks about the merger, shared concerns, and the FF program.

Washington Post Article (http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/09/26/AR2005092601763.html)

- GH

I'm far less upset about the addition of the Platinum level than I am about GPs' status bonus dropping from 100% to 50%. That's huge! And it bites big time! I can't even say that people who come close to making GP stand to gain by getting bumped up to Platinum status ahead of Golds, since their mileage bonus will still be falling 25%. Their upgrade chances will only increase marginally, since they'll still be behind the CP's.

I'm going to stick around for one more year to see what additional changes (good or bad) the next year brings. But if the mileage program continues the way it has been announced, I will seriously consider switching my loyalty to UA.

Speaking of UA, what about those Golds and Plats who fly UA as *Gold and credit their miles to US, will they get the 100% UA bonus? Conversly, will UA elites get enhanced bythe US bonus structure?

Speaking of UA, what about those Golds and Plats who fly UA as *Gold and credit their miles to US, will they get the 100% UA bonus?


Why would they? You really answered your own question. Once you credit to US you get US "bonus" miles.

Conversly, will UA elites get enhanced bythe US bonus structure?

Why would a UA elite credit their flight to US' program, especially now?

Something that does not seem to have been addressed is lounge access from 2006. Or might that be yet another devaluation of gold preferred level? Did I miss something?

Found this article in the Washington Post - thought you all may enjoy reading. It talks about the merger, shared concerns, and the FF program.

Washington Post Article (http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/09/26/AR2005092601763.html)

- GH

And there is a FTer quoted in the article. Keith also called me yesterday to see what I thought of the increase in miles for domestic tickets but I told him that I generally use my miles for international tickets (this year I've gotten tickets for Sydney & Tel Aviv) so it didn't really matter to me.

The bulk of the changes makes Dividend Miles less competitive than most of the other FF programs:

- Although award redemption levels have remained the same in most cases, the loss of the 20K off-peak award is not good. It was a key differentiator for US Air, while the new 25K all-the-time award is just a "me too".

- Elite bonus mile levels are significantly lower than the competition. This is perhaps the biggest devaluation in the program.

- On-line booking bonus of 500 miles is 1/2 of what other airlines are offering

Only positive I see is the elimination of the Saturday night stay requirement on awards. But again, that only brings Dividend Miles to where the other programs have been for years. Nothing here that makes me want to move business from UA & AA to US.

So I am going to be a bit of a contrarian here. As a CP who does over 200,000 miles a year, it seems to me that everyone is now a CP. It is becomming increasingly difficult to get upgrades to first and it seems that half the plane is now Zone 1 boarding. I am in favor of anything that makes it harder to become a CP!

So I am going to be a bit of a contrarian here. As a CP who does over 200,000 miles a year, it seems to me that everyone is now a CP. It is becomming increasingly difficult to get upgrades to first and it seems that half the plane is now Zone 1 boarding. I am in favor of anything that makes it harder to become a CP!

What routes do you fly where you have trouble upgrading as a CP?

Ugh this new program bites for borderline CPs. If you fly 100k miles again then all is good. If you fall short you get socked big time.
99k flown miles gets you 'plat' = 173,250 miles earned versus 198,00 miles in the old system. You lose 24750 miles.
Drop down to 74k flown miles you get 'gold' = 111,000 miles earned versus 148,000 miles in the old system. You lose 37000 miles!!!!!!

Overall for relatively high mileage flyers 50k to borderline 100k you are giving up 1 free ticket per year for the honor of flying US instead of AA or UA or whatever other program you choose.

I don't see the point in staying with US unless you barely fly in which case it doesn't matter or if you can count on flying over 100k miles each and every year.


I for one will wait till December to see what changes are made if any then I will be calling United and asking for a status match or challenge.

Ugh this new program bites for borderline CPs. If you fly 100k miles again then all is good. If you fall short you get socked big time.
99k flown miles gets you 'plat' = 173,250 miles earned versus 198,00 miles in the old system. You lose 24750 miles.
Drop down to 74k flown miles you get 'gold' = 111,000 miles earned versus 148,000 miles in the old system. You lose 37000 miles!!!!!!

Overall for relatively high mileage flyers 50k to borderline 100k you are giving up 1 free ticket per year for the honor of flying US instead of AA or UA or whatever other program you choose.

I don't see the point in staying with US unless you barely fly in which case it doesn't matter or if you can count on flying over 100k miles each and every year.


I for one will wait till December to see what changes are made if any then I will be calling United and asking for a status match or challenge.

Very true. I'm happy to have got CP tied up with promo #6689 but after 2/07 when it expires and I would likely fall back to GP (PP would be a strech) I will likely jump ship to UA.

What routes do you fly where you have trouble upgrading as a CP?

Charlotte - Los Angles
Charlotte - SFO
Charlotte - Las Vegas
Charlotte - Newark (depending on time of day)

And the returns

[QUOTE=sts603]What routes do you fly where you have trouble upgrading as a CP?[/QUOT

Phl-LAS
PHL-SFO
PHL-PHX

I have been NW Platinum Elite for several years, although I live at PHL and US Airway,as hometown airlines, should be my convinent choice. The previous UA + US combination were very competitive vs. Skyteam progarm and had caused me to think about switching to them (either UA or US) after the bankrupty things are over. Compared with NW, old US program would give you similar Elite bonus miles and sometimes required less miles for US, Europe or Latin America awards during off-peak period. Now, this revised new program acts like it is a premiun airlines and can afford to give less to its customere, comparing with other airlines. Well, I wish it good luck! It is "no brainer" for me to stay put.

Ugh this new program bites for borderline CPs. If you fly 100k miles again then all is good. If you fall short you get socked big time.
99k flown miles gets you 'plat' = 173,250 miles earned versus 198,00 miles in the old system. You lose 24750 miles.
Drop down to 74k flown miles you get 'gold' = 111,000 miles earned versus 148,000 miles in the old system. You lose 37000 miles!!!!!!
I will say this for HP in the couple years I've been flying them I've been told several times that if you are within 10% on miles or segments they automatically bump you up to the next level. It's not something they publish and they may not continue doing it but I've been told this by several HP flight fund employees. They were very liberal with their status comps if you demonstrated an amount of flying that would put you over the top had you flown the entire year as well. I flew around 60K one year in only about 4.5 months and they gave me platinum without even having to ask them.

Again, not sure if this will continue or what but it's a possibility. Although with them taking the worst of both programs to come up with this one, one only knows....

Lance

Ugh this new program bites for borderline CPs. If you fly 100k miles again then all is good. If you fall short you get socked big time.
99k flown miles gets you 'plat' = 173,250 miles earned versus 198,00 miles in the old system. You lose 24750 miles.
Drop down to 74k flown miles you get 'gold' = 111,000 miles earned versus 148,000 miles in the old system. You lose 37000 miles!!!!!!

Overall for relatively high mileage flyers 50k to borderline 100k you are giving up 1 free ticket per year for the honor of flying US instead of AA or UA or whatever other program you choose.

I don't see the point in staying with US unless you barely fly in which case it doesn't matter or if you can count on flying over 100k miles each and every year.


I for one will wait till December to see what changes are made if any then I will be calling United and asking for a status match or challenge.

Two points here:

1. The above post, regardless of whether or not the new management will spot you CP if you get within spitting distance or not, underlines the value of the mileage bonuses and how this program at mid-tiers has been devalued versus its previous status as well as versus major competitors. Like the power ports issue, this hits the bullseye for devaluing features important to business travelers. We keep on getting more and more data points to throw on the map, and if you connect them, it draws a line that points to "leisure traveler airline". New management would never admit that, and I hope that I'm wrong, but add this to the list of things that makes one believe that they don't care a lot about business travelers.

2. Did anyone do a double take when they saw that the base award level (ie 25k miles domestic) was called "mileage saver"? Speaking of trends... it was already hard enough to redeem the base mile award for a remotely popular route (see: no base awards to Europe this last summer). It looks pretty clear to me that the "premium" level awards are going to be the new basic award level, and if you want "mileage saver" you might be able to get it on ROC - PHL in the dead of winter but otherwise it'll be a roulette wheel.

I would be fine with them increasing the redemption level for a base award to 35,000 miles if there was actual availability...

These are negative changes to the FF program as metnioned by posters above. I see a fleeing of US FFers to United, etc. I hope that their changes are not imitated by other US carriers.

These are negative changes to the FF program as metnioned by posters above. I see a fleeing of US FFers to United, etc.

Just made CP, looks like one year (2/07) and goooonnnnnnnnnneeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :)

Here's hoping that Gold Preferreds will still be *Golds... :confused:

2.) No details on companion upgrades.

They wouldn't dare get rid of companion upgrades, would they?? The changes announced cut benefits dramatically in my mind. Companion upgrades would be one of the few things left. Anyone know for sure?

They wouldn't dare get rid of companion upgrades, would they?? The changes announced cut benefits dramatically in my mind. Companion upgrades would be one of the few things left. Anyone know for sure?

I doubt they'll do that. Companion upgrades (day of departure) for Gold and Plat members has been part of the HP FF program for a long time. Since they seem to pretty much be extending the HP program into DM, I imagine they'll keep them.

Whether there is much availability to make them useful is a different discussion. . .

The pattern seems to be that when there is a difference between the way US and HP operate, the "New US" is implementing the "lesser" (from the customer's perspective) of the two. In areas where there is no difference between the way US and HP operate, they seem to be maintaining the status quo. Given this hypothesis, it wouldn't surprise me if the "New US" downgrades their entire 757 fleet to F8. I hope to be proven wrong.

I doubt they'll do that. Companion upgrades (day of departure) for Gold and Plat members has been part of the HP FF program for a long time. Since they seem to pretty much be extending the HP program into DM, I imagine they'll keep them.

Whether there is much availability to make them useful is a different discussion. . .
The difference was US used to do them at the elites clearance time right? So a CP and his/her companion would both clear at 7 days vs the HP where the companion would clear the same day as the flight. With possibly fewer F seats I think this is the way to go. If every Chairmans/plat etc. could add a companion you are going to run out of F seats quickly on some routes when there are only 8 to begin with.

Lance

The difference was US used to do them at the elites clearance time right? So a CP and his/her companion would both clear at 7 days vs the HP where the companion would clear the same day as the flight. With possibly fewer F seats I think this is the way to go. If every Chairmans/plat etc. could add a companion you are going to run out of F seats quickly on some routes when there are only 8 to begin with.


I agree. While I'm sure it was a coveted benefit for CP's, given what I'm certain will be reduced availability of upgrades (based upon what HP has done in the past), it just isn't fair to the lower level elite members.

But on occasion, that companion upgrade is really important. When it is, I use miles to confirm it -- but even that is harder to do given the restrictions on the number of seats they make available.

I've long felt that Platinum, now CP's, should be given a small number of confirmed domestic upgrades, either in paper or digital form, that can be used at your upgrade window for a companion traveling with you. That way, for this or that special occasion, you have it handled. I think it would be a very nice benefit.

AZ,

I never travelled with a companion while I had status but I thought I read some threads that your upgrade would not clear if you had someone of lower status or no status on your itinerary. Was this the case if you had just a regular traveller with no status that your plat upgrade wouldn't clear that the 3 day window due to the other person being on there or am I remembering incorrectly?

Lance

Was this the case if you had just a regular traveller with no status that your plat upgrade wouldn't clear that the 3 day window due to the other person being on there or am I remembering incorrectly?

Yes, that's correct. If in the same PNR, you won't get upgraded at your upgrade window. You can call and if first is available the agent will split the PNR into two and upgrade you. Then you can upgrade your companion at the airport (via an agent, you can't do it at the kisok unless the person is the same PNR) if there is an available seat.

I agree. While I'm sure it was a coveted benefit for CP's, given what I'm certain will be reduced availability of upgrades (based upon what HP has done in the past), it just isn't fair to the lower level elite members.
Am I concerned about whether it is fair for a flyer who flies 25 segments a year versus a customer who is flying 120 plus segments. NO

If he wants the benefit, he can fly more. That is what rewarding loyalty is all about.

Am I concerned about whether it is fair for a flyer who flies 25 segments a year versus a customer who is flying 120 plus segments. NO

If he wants the benefit, he can fly more. That is what rewarding loyalty is all about.

Gee, thanks, Greg. Glad you care about little folks like me. ;)

Am I concerned about whether it is fair for a flyer who flies 25 segments a year versus a customer who is flying 120 plus segments. NO

If he wants the benefit, he can fly more. That is what rewarding loyalty is all about.

I have to agree with this. While it's nice to be touchy-feeley and care about everyone, they fact is that this is how loyalty programs should work. I was on the back of the plane, Zone 6 boarding for four Delta flights this week. I had no ill will to those who were up front or boarded early

(I did want to kill the Delta agents who took their sweet time moving the late flight along - I missed the first 25 minutes of Pearl Jam. :mad: )


Sadly, I do see the pattern of taking the "worst of" when designing the new program, and that doesn't bode well for future changes. I guess the LCC with a difference won't be that different after all.

I guess the LCC with a difference won't be that different after all.

You hit that right in the head. Why don't they just get it over with and paint the planes mustard with red bellies.

You hit that right in the head. Why don't they just get it over with and paint the planes mustard with red bellies.
They don't paint 'em baby poop brown any more. They are now tidy bowl blue. :p

My 2 cents:

* I just made Gold, so the cut to 50% bonus is really irritating.
* The crowd of people heading to Europe on US, UA, and LH just grew by a lot, and the other *A FFs are the ones that are going to be hurting, since I don't think anyone is adding flights to Europe to accomodate more FFs.

Why is everyone being so negative, including with the threats about walking to other airlines? Does everyone realize that the new US Airways has the best elite program and upgrade policy of any airline, especially compared to United?

CHP can clear anytime in advance on US/HP on full Coach fares, or w/in 7 days before departure on other Coach fareswhich is better than any other airline.

Platinum get the same on full-fare, and on other Coach can clear 4 days before departure.

Gold get the same on full-fare, but on other Coach can clear 3 days before departure.

Silver -- also the best of breed -- full fare the same, and on other Coach
can clear 2 days before departure. This is better than all other airlines.

This is most the important aspect of the new US Airways to me. I am a lowly Silver Preferred and UA Premier, and I am switching all my business over to US Airways!

Why is everyone being so negative, including with the threats about walking to other airlines? Does everyone realize that the new US Airways has the best elite program and upgrade policy of any airline, especially compared to United?

CHP can clear anytime in advance on US/HP on full Coach fares, or w/in 7 days before departure on other Coach fareswhich is better than any other airline.

Platinum get the same on full-fare, and on other Coach can clear 4 days before departure.

Gold get the same on full-fare, but on other Coach can clear 3 days before departure.

Silver -- also the best of breed -- full fare the same, and on other Coach
can clear 2 days before departure. This is better than all other airlines.

This is most the important aspect of the new US Airways to me. I am a lowly Silver Preferred and UA Premier, and I am switching all my business over to US Airways!

C'mon, Parker, you run the airline and all you got was silver pref out of the deal?

Humm... Let's see. An airline recently rated the worst domestic airline sets the level of their highest Elite level at a minimum of 20% more than their competition and they want me to fly them?

Yeah…..right.

Given these changes, my US Gold will not be getting renewed. Time to plow the trips into another program and book away from US.

Anyone have any idea whether Gold or Platnium in the new program (or both, ideally) will receive Star Alliance Gold status? Hopefully "new" Gold status won't be demoted to Star Alliance Silver status -- there's a world of difference (no lounge access on international itineraries, etc.).

Who's got the 411?

Regards, EWC-JMU

Anyone have any idea whether Gold or Platnium in the new program (or both, ideally) will receive Star Alliance Gold status? Hopefully "new" Gold status won't be demoted to Star Alliance Silver status -- there's a world of difference (no lounge access on international itineraries, etc.).

Who's got the 411?

Regards, EWC-JMU

Pulling of * Gold status for US Golds while making it a Platinum and CP benefit would be yet another indicator that US/HP's frequent flyer mileage program is a really bad deal for far more people than already evident by the disseminated revisions.

I'm going to assume that GP's will still get *G status, as they've re-vamped the Preferred benefits page (http://www.usairways.com/dividendmiles/preferredlevels/benefits.htm) and it shows *G there.

-JC

Why is everyone being so negative, including with the threats about walking to other airlines? Does everyone realize that the new US Airways has the best elite program and upgrade policy of any airline, especially compared to United?

CHP can clear anytime in advance on US/HP on full Coach fares, or w/in 7 days before departure on other Coach fareswhich is better than any other airline.

Platinum get the same on full-fare, and on other Coach can clear 4 days before departure.

Gold get the same on full-fare, but on other Coach can clear 3 days before departure.

Silver -- also the best of breed -- full fare the same, and on other Coach
can clear 2 days before departure. This is better than all other airlines.

This is most the important aspect of the new US Airways to me. I am a lowly Silver Preferred and UA Premier, and I am switching all my business over to US Airways!

Ok, I am not going to complain about upgrades (I have had good luck upgrading while traveling to SJU), but what really upset me was the reduction in the bonus miles. 25% for Silver, and 50% for Gold? I will be making it to Gold this year (the old way), and naturally, when I saw this announcement, I was chagrined. The new FF program does not make such a difference for one who travels more than 120K per year, but for other people who are borderline for any other tier, the new FF program sucks. If as GP, I get 100% bonus on other airlines, but only 50% in US, why would I fly on US?

In any case, it is not as if the service in first class is that great anyway in US (especially after US went into the second bankruptcy), in part because of the not-so-good relation between employees and management.

I am going to switch when I can. Right now, only US and NW serves my airport, and so I am stuck, but once I am out of here, I will be looking at other FF programs. The disadvantage of AA is that it is not part of *A, and that makes a big difference to me. UA is probably the best bet.

I couldn't see them ever getting rid of Star Gold for GPs because you'd instantly see any international-flying GP bail out for UA 1P.

And those other airlines offer higher bonuses for 50k tier status, but no free upgrades - Gotta fork over.

Tradeoffs are everywhere.

I'm going to assume that GP's will still get *G status, as they've re-vamped the Preferred benefits page (http://www.usairways.com/dividendmiles/preferredlevels/benefits.htm) and it shows *G there.

-JC


It is distincly possible that I am missing something here, but on that page, it still shows GP with a 100 percent bonus...

Yes, that is not the updated page.

My two cents:

As a very frequent business traveler over the last 10 years, I have noticed differences between the east coast business traveler and the west cost traveler. Granted, I have down-graded my butt-in-seat miles the last 18 months, but speaking anecdotally here is what I noticed over the years.

The east coast business person expects upgrades and perks more than the west coast person. I have seen this time after time. The west coast mentality is more often than not, “get me to my destination.” Maybe it’s because the run times between west coast cities is shorter, maybe it is just their expectations in life all together different. I lived out west for many years. I have done the LAX-CLT-PIT-PHL. I have also done the PHX-LAX-SEA & SFO routes too many times. Perks were just not as important in general.

On the east coast, I see more elites hang at the gate to jump up at the first sign of the doors opening to get inline and then there is the loud complaining at the gate about not getting upgraded. And this is for flights from BWI-CLT or CLT-DCI.

My point is that if the new HP/US management thinks that the west coast perks will pacify east coast travelers they made a very serious mistake. The HP FF/Elite model is not going to be acceptable to many of the experienced US travelers. And they WILL switch carriers to get what they THINK they deserve.

Ok, maybe that is more than 2 cents worth. And yes, I know many of you will think I’m all wet. Guess we will have to wait and see…or not.

It is distincly possible that I am missing something here, but on that page, it still shows GP with a 100 percent bonus...

It also shows just three tiers. So I tend to think its not updated.

I tend to agree with those who say that Golds will keep * Gold status. But is that a US decision or a Star Alliance decision? And is there any precedent for this? Put another way, what other * carriers have a four-tier elite system?

Regards, EWC

It sucks for me as I was planning on dropping from CP go GP this year, but now I'll be dropping two levels. But it does make sense to have a level between 50K and 100K.

The whole thing works well. People who fly the most get the most. 50k miles is really not that much, and if I were at 90 and didnt get ahead of someone who was 50 I would be upset. The plat level is good. It is fair.

I'm pretty sure it's an airline-by-airline decision... the airline pays the alliance X for each *S and *G member, right?

Air Canada offers *G at 35k EQM. So obviously there's nothing particularly inviolate about tiers or mileage.

Some info that may be helpful to some:

US Airways dollar-off vouchers can be used for travel on US Airways codeshare flights operated by America West. Typically, codeshare flights connect with flights operated by US Airways. Please inquire with US Airways Gold Preferred Reservations [GP number removed] if you are unsure whether a flight operated by America West is a US Airways codeshare flight. To purchase a ticket using the voucher, you must do so at a US Airways ticket counter or City Ticket Office.

My two cents:

As a very frequent business traveler over the last 10 years, I have noticed differences between the east coast business traveler and the west cost traveler. Granted, I have down-graded my butt-in-seat miles the last 18 months, but speaking anecdotally here is what I noticed over the years.

The east coast business person expects upgrades and perks more than the west coast person. I have seen this time after time. The west coast mentality is more often than not, “get me to my destination.” Maybe it’s because the run times between west coast cities is shorter, maybe it is just their expectations in life all together different. I lived out west for many years. I have done the LAX-CLT-PIT-PHL. I have also done the PHX-LAX-SEA & SFO routes too many times. Perks were just not as important in general.

On the east coast, I see more elites hang at the gate to jump up at the first sign of the doors opening to get inline and then there is the loud complaining at the gate about not getting upgraded. And this is for flights from BWI-CLT or CLT-DCI.

My point is that if the new HP/US management thinks that the west coast perks will pacify east coast travelers they made a very serious mistake. The HP FF/Elite model is not going to be acceptable to many of the experienced US travelers. And they WILL switch carriers to get what they THINK they deserve.

Ok, maybe that is more than 2 cents worth. And yes, I know many of you will think I’m all wet. Guess we will have to wait and see…or not. I disagree most of the people I know on the west coast are doing 250-300k miles a year. I Have some one next month that lives in Portland going to San Jaun every week for a month. They care about upgrades on those flights.