Here is the email going out overnight (probably recv'd late evening by most in the U.S.):
Dear MikeMpls,
We are pleased to announce these upcoming OnePass Elite benefits effective for earning Jan. 1, 2010:
System-wide Upgrades
Platinum Elite members who earn at least 100,000 Elite Qualification Miles (EQMs) or 120 Elite Qualification Points (EQPs) will earn four, one-way electronic System-wide Upgrade certificates. These certificates can be used in conjunction with any published fare on Continental, Continental Micronesia or Copa Airlines flights and are not subject to additional fees.
Learn more about System-wide Upgrades.
New Elite level — OnePass Presidential Platinum Elite
Presidential Platinum is a new invitation-only Elite tier designed to reward Continental’s top Platinum Elite members with some exciting new benefits. Members who achieve this level will be given all the benefits of a Platinum Elite member, plus top priority in Elite Upgrade recognition and flight standby, a dedicated VIP phone line and an annual fee waiver on the Continental Airlines Presidential PlusSM World MasterCard® card subject to credit approval. The Presidential Plus card is available to members residing in the mainland U.S. and Alaska.
Learn more about Presidential Platinum Elite status.
We look forward to rewarding our Elite members with these new benefits, which will be available for redemption and fulfillment mid-year 2010.
Sincerely,
Mark Bergsrud
Sr. Vice President, Marketing Programs and Distribution
*$30,000 is the inaugural spend threshold for 2010. In subsequent years, this threshold may change in order to preserve the exclusivity of this program.
I'd assumed from the discussions (not enough time to follow closely right now) that the SWU's were part of the new $30K spend tier, but they are strictly mileage-based, and might actually be within reach for me in some years. ^
The last year has seen the best-in-class dismantling of SkyMiles & especially WorldPerks, while it appears CO has been taking notes, planning & comping elites. The timing is perfect, since most folks will not have purchased a lot of 2010 travel yet.
Advantage Continental, and check!
If history repeats itself, we'll have an announcement from
Leo Oscar in about a year regarding how all is well and how Delta's [dwindling] population of road warriors enjoyes paying a premium to patronize the world's premium international airline. In about 2012 Oscar & Jeff will line up at the enemployment office. Who is selected as the new CEO won't matter much in the greater scheme of things, and a new beancounter from Rev. Mgmt. will be placed in charge of SkyMiles as the cycle is repeated.
Enjoy!