Won't affect me. I plan my travel about three months out so I take advantage of the lower, non-qualifying, fares. Since I do about 160-K BIS, I'm going to qualify anyway.

But, it brings up a point. Because I am prepared and I take advantage of the lowest fares they offer at the time, am I not as valuable as the guy who might fly less, but makes last minute decisions. I am strictly loyal to NW/DL and give them almost all my business. But, with triple miles on last minute travel, many could do one third the flying and still qualify---and give their business to yet another airline.

I guess my reward is less out of pocket expense. And as they say, "And that ain't bad."