Originally Posted by
wlau
I don't know.. SWA still doesn't have business class, bigger seat, or meal service. Most elites go for those benefits. Also, SWA's award system is awful, everything expires in 12 months. For the true frequent business travelers, that's a big restriction. People want to be able to save and use it on a family vacation or an international trip. Also, SWA's destinations are limited, only a handful of truly desireable vacation spots. I let several of my awards expire because there just aren't many SWA places that I want to go.
Business Class? Bigger Seat? Meal Service? Three things that work in direct opposition to the legendary culture the company has spent three decades building, and succeeding on.
As far as awards expiring, they're extendable for a year after they expire for $50. So that's 12 months free, 24 months for $50. In fact, it's possible to use an award nearly three years after it's earned if you don't extend it until near the end of the second year. And I don't want to hear any griping about the $50 fee. Some legacy carriers are charging that much for award *redemption*, regardless of validity dates.
I guess for the fake frequent flier business travelers (who are just as important to SWA as the real ones) don't see it as such a big restriction.
As far as desirable destinations, your personal preference really does not make the most compelling value proposition to the rest of us.
It really doesn't sound like SWA is for you. I don't go into Wal-Mart and complain they're not Neiman Marcus, I go to Neiman Marcus.