Responding to sbrower's quotation from the California code...

I hardly think a 500-mile certificate is a document for "passage" on a common carrier. The actual ticket is the document of passage. The certificate can only be applied to an account and can be used for many things other than passage on the carrier (including a donation for charitable causes-Make a Wish, American Cancer Society, etc).

However, I do indeed agree with the airlines' policies in this matter and I certainly respect them. Finally, I do know that there is absolutely no state law which is enforceable that prohibits even selling, bartering or any of the ugly things that ticket/coupon brokers practice. The brokers are LEGALLY in business in many states (including California) and are doing business.

It is "buyer beware" when dealing with these people. The airlines are absolutely correct with the manner in how they deal with these people (and their customers). The airlines have a business to operate and there would be anarchy and a tremendous loss of the ability for the airlines to have a chance for profitability if they would allow this business practice.

While it is not illegal, it is certainly unethical and should be stopped.

Personally, I have never violated AA's policy. When I had DL certificates from GreenPoints.com, I did sell some of them and I donated even more to Make a Wish...because I did not have a DL account (I will only fly AA!) and when GreenPoints had AA certificates, I applied them to my AA account.

Some of the policies might sound cruel and unfair to some people, but they are necessary and right. They keep prices from elevating, and they keep airlines solvent. If the government somehow allowed people to start selling miles and take advantage of these coupon brokers, if I were the airlines, I would immediately discontinue the frequent flyer programs.

People should not be allowed to purchase their loyalty...the good people who frequent these boards to many degrees have EARNED it!