If you are looking for the quickest way to a ticket and a ticket that has no capacity controls and very few blackout dates then go with the SW Visa. It used to be 1 pt. for every $1k spent. However, I think it went up recently to 1 pt. for $1.2k spent. This means spend $19,200/yr. and you have yourself a ticket. The ticket is good for a year and is transferable. It is also issued as two one-way coupons.

These tickets are great for emergencies. There is NO advanced reservation or ticketing requirement or capacity control which means that if there is a seat open on the flight the day you call you get it. The only restriction is common black out dates around Thanksgiving and Christmas.

(Edited to add "NO" advanced or ticketing requirements)

[This message has been edited by SteveHOU (edited Feb 07, 2004).]