I have less of a problem with the constant devaluation because it is to be expected when we as customers accept it. All airlines will keep ratcheting back perks and if they do not see customers actually leave because of it then every other airline joins in and they do it all over again. It is, by definition, acceptable.

The issue I have is with the Skymiles Management team and tactics. With the race to the bottom amongst US airlines in full stride there is NO NEED to sneak in changes. There is no need to change things retroactively and break what is at least in theory a contract between two parties (not legal but implied). There is no need to hide inventory reductions behind a facade of "IT problems" and 3 tier systems that will "make even MORE awards available!" The ONLY reason an airline loyalty program would operate like Delta Skymiles has in these times is that it is in their DNA. We all know corporations are all about making money but I have a far easier time giving more of mine to companies who at least attempt to keep the sanctity of the customer/supplier "relationship" alive. Companies who are honest and up front can also be profitable and fair. I fear the Skymiles Management team are young, finance trained execs who look at customers as Ham Sandwiches and customer loyalty an entitlement. It is almost ego-maniacal.

I know prices go up, margins need improvement and customers have to pay more. The way you go about asking for more says everything about the company doing the asking. You can be honest OR you can twist, lie and find a way to blame it on the same folks you are asking for more money from. They chose the later.