I was unable to obtain SE IKK business seats on the following...

AC-792 May 8th - Mid day Saturday flight from LAX to YYZ

All flights from Mainland China (HKG, PVG, PEK) to YVR in a 3 day window centered on May 22nd.

I certainly do not consider these flight to be at peak travel times when demand for J is high. For what it's worth Expertflyer shows plenty of availability in J and Y, especially AC-792.

IMO the SE IKK benefit is virtually worthless if seats are not available under these types of conditions.

Typically I buy discounted business or latitude fairs (when the upgrade can be confirmed). This makes the SE IKK benefit the primary reason for me to obtain SE status.

I have already surpassed the E threshold this year. Since the SE IKK is now virtually worthless I no longer see the need to focus on retaining SE status for next year. My company and I will spend our travel dollars elsewhere.

As a side, I was able to easily obtain business rewards on the Star Alliance segments of my itinerary.