If and when AS creates a new higher tier, it needs to entice both AS and VX members to fly even more. I'd guess Business Seat upgrades on Premium Transcon (via ecert), and BR Passes.
The drawback, likely, is the spend requirement, as VX Gold member has minimum earn 50,000 point earn requirement at 5 points/$1 spend. ($10,000).
I'd guess it would be raised to $15,000, just a guess of course....
No way, do I think AS is going to give away premium benefit for free....
Jiburi