Yes I have been taking a number of trips each year around Europe in order to maintain silver, and also buying CW fares to get the extra TPs.

I do understand how those unable to pre-assign feel as I was like that myself before I became silver. 'What a hypocrite' I hear you say. Well maybe, but the old policy did at least hold back some of the more favoured seats for premium card holders whereas this new policy doesn't appear to be doing that (though I've just heard something about UD not being for sale?)

If that same protection of seats for late booking silver or gold card holders was still in effect then I'd be much happier and comfortable with the policy.

And I'm certainly aware of the tough economic conditions we're currently facing and have no problem with the charging for seats. However I do think there's a compromise to be reached somewhere for silver card holders who certainly seem to be the ones being short changed by this.