Actually according to their site, they only honor the 2nd bag. They charge for the 2nd bag. So the *Gold Benefit is the 2nd bag for free, not even extra weight. This is a recent change that they put in place. I fear that this is where AC will go now that they charge for the 2nd bag. We will be allowed to get that 2nd bag for free.

To be honest the E and SE benefit on AC is crazy, a good way. I pack so much stuff on my transatlantic flights for the holidays with all the luggage and weight that I get weird looks from other passengers when I check in and after I collect everything on the belt. Especially since my luggage comes off first with the priority tags. But, it makes up for all the times I fly for business with no checked luggage.