As one of the rare people who has never had F9 status but will achieve it this year, I am very disappointed to hear this. This is the benefit I was most looking forward to. Although, as I am mostly a short-haul flier, it's not a deal killer. Still looking forward to the fee-free premium seats (hopefully that won't be the next thing to go!)
I wonder if their plan is to stop printing cards for Summit/Ascent members. Can't imagine that costs THAT much, though..