Originally Posted by
duniawala
Given the recent changes in the the redemption requirements and changes to the lounge fees et al a big question comes to mind.
Are the airlines having second thoughts on the monster they released. When the FF program first started, it had a purpose. But then the airlines got greedy and every tom dick and harry credit cards started giving mileage. Has the program become too large to manage? I mean, free(?) flights in all classes, upgrades to biz and first based with no direct revenue of a paid ticket? As I see it, mileage requirements have changed, and lounge fees have increased. So, what do you think.
Is the FF program on the way out?
Go look at how much revenue FF programs generate for airlines in SEC/stock filings, and then come back to the thread. This should tell you the answer.
The other thing: FF programs are like casinos; it's entirely up to the airline/casino how much value to return to the customer. I don't think Harrah's is going to shut down their casino just because someone was able to count cards and come away with a few thousand in winnings. They just make it tougher to count cards and change the rules (blackjack payouts going from 3/2 to 6/5).