Originally Posted by
Tafflyer
Excuse me? It's not abuse, it's called a benefit!
While Golds may see it as a benefit, those on lower tiers may see it as "abuse", because Golds may eat up award space without any risk. As such, there is nothing stopping them block-booking seats months in advance and then cherry-pick which ones they want to go on. Considering the scarcity of award space, this may be perceived as unfair usage of the system. Those incurring a financial penalty as a result of an Avios cancellation are less likely to engage in such practice.