Originally Posted by
Gargoyle
My guess is the swelling/inflation of elite ranks due to promos is more than offset by the diminution of the elite ranks due to economic factors (serious cutback on business and leisure travel).
Absolutely. The airlines are running all of these promos because they are falling short on their elite targets. If folks were qualifying without this stuff, then they wouldn't have all the promos.
As to the question at hand... I wouldn't spend $700 extra to maintain PM, but I might spend more on each flight to maximize my benefits. I mean, if I stand a decent chance of an upgrade, I might spend something extra for that flight. I might spend more on a long-haul if I can snag a preferred seat, like the A330 exit rows. Ditto for checked bags. And don't forget the value of the bonus miles. But it is tough for me to answer as I really don't ever have to spend a premium to fly on DL or partners.