For the last three years I've had MVP status with Alaska Air, and I've enjoyed the privileges that go along with that status. But recently, I've noticed that a lot of the niceties are being eliminated.

For example, in the past I was able to upgrade from coach to 1st class using my miles, regardless of the ticket fare. Now, you can only do this if it's one of the higher priced fares. Since my company's travel agent books the flights, I have no control over getting such fares. So upgrading in this fashion has been eliminated.

This year, it seems that I rarely can upgrade to 1st class by being put on the waiting list (even 3 weeks in advance). There's lots of seats available 3 days before the flight, but it seems that MVP Gold members are getting them before me.

Yesterday, I noticed that the speedy "premium" checkpoint line at the Seattle airport is only for MVP-Gold members (when in the past it included MVP members), so that privilege has been removed as well. It was this benefit that irks me the most, since I now have to arrive 45 mins earlier to wade thru the general passenger checkpoint line.

So what benefits do I have as MVP? Maybe upgrading to 1st class with a comp upgrade (a big MAYBE), getting to board the plane before the general passengers, and that's about it. Although I get some extra miles in my mileage plan being MVP, I really don't use them for anything (since I usually don't fly for personal activities). I also don't fly enough to get MVP-Gold status, so I'm stuck in the middle here.

It really makes me want to explore the other frequent travel plans available with the other airlines. Maybe all airlines are doing this, but still I'm a bit disappointed that Alaska is cutting back on the amenities.

ppcinfo