I’m resigned to the reality that the frequent flyer programs are no longer very appealing to my specific situtation. Once in a while, I’ll enjoy some kind of perk, but they’ve all been diluted to the point of oddities and waste.

Those 500 mile upgrades? Useless.
A business class ticket from East Coast USA to Europe? Pffft. Good luck unless you waste 100,000’s of miles.
Boarding priority? As if it matters when all the scammers roll up in their wheelchairs with whole family in tow. Same people from the wheelchairs are suddenly healed upon arrival and sprint off the plane.
My visits to Admirals Clubs have been disheartening. Seemingly overrun by a herd of ravenous goats whenever I enter the one at CLT. In PHL’s, the service is surly and hardly anything on offer food-wise. LAX, dirty, also overrun many times. By contrast, other companies’ clubs I visit in Madrid, specifically, and elsewhere are amazing with the food and service.

Some of this is due to the airline, most of it do to the passengers. It is what it is. The race to the bottom continues, including among much of the flying public who feels no compunction to behave rationallyl and courteous. Oh, let me carry on this engine block, spare pistons, and all the tools to rebuild my son’s truck ‘68 Corvette. What? I can’t?! Are you kidding me!!!! Waaaaahhhhhhhh! Mommmieeeeee!

Blah, blah, blah.

To diminish the frustration, I’m finding ways to fly less, thereby opening seats I would occupy to others who may find the experience to their liking.

Flying just isn’t a joy anymore, except on some shorter flights on the regional jets that are typically quite clean, friendly staff, and comfortable.