Originally Posted by
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Valuing the Right Customers[/B]
I don't know why (other than system issues) AA hasn't switched to awarding points and redeeming points specifically on $$/point. This allows you to earn based on what you spend and recoup based on what you would spend. This seems simple to me and would align AA values with customers that spend a lot. Right now, AA values a last minute, $800 fare buyer the same as a $200 fare buyer if its the same flight.
They already do them far more then you think behind the scenes of valuing the true top value customers. There is a system in place that tracks this and alerts front end personnel to true high value passengers.
The flaw in your argument is that true high value passengers dont tend to care so much about points or miles. These travelers actually PAY for their seats full fare, miles they don't tend to have much use for.