I do find it kind of funny how people often tout maximizing mileage for a trip, then balk when they have to/want to make a connection. Seems like you can't have your cake and eat it too
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At this point I am waiting it out with DL this year, though I have used at least one other airline recently.
you are right, most people would like to have both options (me included). in MSP the consensus seems to be: stay with Delta. Today I guess it's the only airline out of MSP which gives you non-stop options and/or allows you to be creative with 2-stop East-West combinations...or you can sometimes mix and match, one way go for mileage, return go for convenience.
my original question was really sparked by all the complaints on miles redeemability and (supposedly) bad customer service.