A possible strategy is to make EXP in alternate years. If CX only drops you one level a year it might be attractive, also some airlines have targeted marketing programs for flyers whose usage has dropped. Not sure if it is worthwhile, but with AA makes this strategy viable as the primary EXP benefit (VIP certificates) is identical with alternate year qualification as with every year. I have enough travel to get top-tier in 3 programs so it isn't really a choice I have to make, but if my travel dropped I would probably try the alternate year strategy. Otherwise the MPC Diamond benefit of guaranteed discount fare access is a huge benefit, esp. as they would op-upgrade you on those sold-out flights. Makes for a very cheap business class fare (no wonder other airlines don't offer this benefit).