Originally Posted by
ajnaro
I agree with sdsearch'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.
I do not agree
If I could afford to pay Biz/First class, I'd simply pick up the best and more convenient flight, so for sure a FFP could
not offer me benefits like free class upgrade, dedicated check in and lounge access because or not possible or already included in the service.
I have no clue why such a customer decided to stay with an airline or an alliance. Perhaps he doesn't....
But I can not afford to be elsewhere if not in the economy cabin. Now, FFP benefits like free class upgrade, dedicated check in and lounge access are really attractive. And I think I'm not alone in this opinion. I look forward them, I use them and I like them because they make my travel (i.e. life) a bit easier.
From time to time I redeem a long haul award in biz/first class and whatever the airline, it's a wonderful experience because I usually sit something like 30 rows behind !
By the way sitting on the back using a 200 EUR ticket vs sitting on the same seat but after having paid 980 EUR, gives the same in flight service just a very few more miles (not a lot more).
Free ticket ? I hope your wallet never experiences the pleasure to pay the AF/BA/LH fuel surcharge. I was surprised to discover AA and UA still offer almost free ticket, i.e. tax as low as 3 USD.