Originally Posted by
Dr. HFH
Between this and the 2015 Currency Promotion, AA seems to be giving away both miles and status. Is it simply trying to purchase the pax from competitors? This is going to make upgrades and awards that much more difficult for the next few years. While I certainly see the validity and reason that you treat all pax in a given category (e.g., elite status) similarly, wouldn't one think that the airline still wants to recognize the pax who earn status through actual BIS miles, actual segments or points (which come from actually paying for premium cabins/fares)?
I wouldn't say AA is giving away status and miles. They gave away status when they comped EXP status along with free SWUs to elites from other programs. People still have to purchase and fly to get status with this promotion and this is only for this calendar year. AA is merely saying it also values passengers flying on premium class revenue tickets. In the long run, I doubt many will pay full-fare F and J fare class tickets. But many may benefit from getting additional EQPs for purchasing discounted business and first class fare tickets (e.g. I and P fare class).
I think the FFP merger with US Airways will affect upgrades and awards moreso than the above promotion.