I agree with [/bold]sdsearch[bold/]'s analysis. But still, it's hard to understand why airlines would systematically discourage the loyalty of their most profitable customers and cultivate the loyalty of the less profitable economy class customers. Unless, they're aiming mainly at the loyalty of 'full-fare' (Y and B) class customers and discouraging both discount economy and premium fare customers. As for "giving away little while promising a lot," I certainly agree with that conclusion, but it is sure to kill of the appeal of miles/points in the medium term. I, for one, now only collect miles when I can't avoid them (i.e., for flying). And I use them mainly for friends who are willing to accept economy seating in return for a cheap (not 'free' anymore) ticket.