Originally Posted by SkyMilesInsider

• New Day-of-departure SWU: Platinum and Diamond members will be able to choose from a variety of “Choice Benefits.” Included in these options are new Systemwide Upgrade Certificates (SWU). Basically, the new SWU is the same as our current PMU – except you can now use the SWU at the gate if a seat is available on the day of your departure. Platinums who select the SWU benefit will receive four certificates, and Diamonds will receive six. Some of you have asked why Platinums will receive fewer certificates in 2010 than in 2009. While you won’t receive as many certificates as before, we think they should be more usable and rewarding because we’ve added the ability to use SWUs on the day of departure.

• Choice Benefits: You guys are wondering how many choice benefits you’ll get to select if you hit Platinum and Diamond in the same year. The answer? Three. You’ll choose one benefit when you reach Platinum and two when you hit Diamond. If you’re already a Diamond and you re-qualify for Diamond status, you’ll choose two benefits when you hit 125,000 miles.