Originally Posted by
dcpdxtrans
As someone who flies JJ much due to regular flights to Brasil and who has pooled his miles into *A via United, TAM joining OW is really an unknown but potentially huge blow. First, won't get the 3 bags per person now that I'll be flying a different alliance once in Brasil though I guess that won't be such a big deal. Second, saved so much money booking through JJ when flying UA metal. Third, miles won't get me to my final destinations now. This news appears to be a big disappointment...
It's all in how you look at it. If you are dedicated UA flyer, I can see your point. I, OTOH, am a dedicated AA flyer so this just thrills me. I will get miles on my intra Brazil travel which will be great. I think the bigger issue is the effect on Brazilian travelers who will have more of an adjustment to make. As a flyer, I hope there will be adequate premium inventory available for award redemption Brazil-Europe but from the company's perspective I hope they can sell a lot of that inventory too. With only two major national airlines now, I wonder how much Brazilian carriers will devote to their loyalty programs.