Originally Posted by
seadog83
The thing is too, it's not like the introduced a new lower fare status. They just kept the old prices, and removed perks.
I disagree on that one. Flight cost has gradually decreased in my case over the last decade or so, whereas literally everything else got more expensive. If you look at the general trend, air travel has become a lot more affordable to a greater number of potential customers.
Originally Posted by
seadog83
Conversely, even 5 years ago, most fares on most lines earned 100% status miles.
No. Even 5 years ago, it was rather common that you received only little miles in the discounted ticket.
Originally Posted by
seadog83
While brand loyalty may be nearly non-existent, alliance loyalty is not. I was a perfect example.
You overestimate the number of frequent flyers. On many routes the occasional flyer is still the bread and butter of the business. And IME these passenger don't care for miles. They simply book with the cheapest airline that fulfils their safety and service expectations.