There are still some benefits unique to Alaska. But management seems oddly eager to erode these qualites, one by one, even when they are competitive differentiators from the actual big 4. United, Delta, and Southwest aren’t standing still, and each - in their own unique way - is attempting to get better. If and when the competitors’ routes are better, policies are roughly similar, redemption options are more complete, and service is within a reasonable margin, Alaska will be in trouble outside the PNW. That may not ever happen for you. Or, it might happen really soon, or even be already true, depending on your own particular flying habits and prefs. Service with Alaska legacy crews and the mileage plan are the key remaining differentiators. For now.