Originally Posted by
Allvest
Nobody is playing games or gaming a system. ACsets and frequently resets the rules
We users simply try to access benefits advertised in large print by the likes of Aeroplan and being abused for doing it. That's not fair, nor right.
Most legitimately obtained aeroplan and upgrade tickets are at worst on an opportunity cost basis to AC and more likely a value proposition to them as we essentially prepay higher fares for the chance to upgrade. The odds are always with the house on the AC games. The few occasions where they lose, they come down on their customers like cops on a bunch of thieves. The real thievery is the deceptive advertising and misinformation given to the general flying public.
Even those flying other carriers... What do they cost AC? At most a Maple leaf worldwide club card is sold at $500. Likely 200$ to the cc companies. The cost of a few free checked bags? Isn't it around $20 per bag in North America?
I would guess that the senior executives actually don't even know the dynamics of most of their frequent fliers.
If you think no one is playing games, I have a bridge to sell you. Yes, AC sets the rules, but game player do effect everyone. Everytime a AC card holder enters a UA lounge, AC is charged $25 to $35 per visit, per person. So if you do a 3 segment run on UA, it directly cost AC $75 or more. What are the deceptive advertising and misinforming? I would guarantee AC senior executives understand their dynamics of their frequent flier program, along with the costs. They may not know all the loop holes, which they close over time. This is true will all companies.