I have had no problems with AA, UA, or CO, regardless of elite status. Alaska is downright terrible. Their Mileage Plan and award lines require constant waits. Punki's strategy to call early is good; I have had some success calling about 1/2 hour before they close, if you can call success a 20 min. wait. Recently, I have had trouble getting through to the HHonors reservation line. At times the phone rings forever before it switches you on to hold. I was trying to get through the other day and gave up after waiting about 15 min.