Originally Posted by
HatAndJacket
but being more difficult to qualify for than similar levels of other programs,
How do you figure?
It is roughly equivalent to the 25-50k tier of other programs in terms of average spend to get there. How many free upgrades do you get as an AA Gold? Or a DL Silver? And which is a better value?
The international redemption partners bit is certainly lacking and is my main gripe with the program. But that's not related to elite status or not.