I have always been a proponent of being platinum, because whenever using upgrades we are just one step above the golds. I get the occasional CPU on non hub to hub routes and using my RPU on PS service has been fruitful this year, even a 1K buddy has sponsored me a few times and been traveling on the 787- 10 between LAX and EWR In business quite often due to the RPU’ clearing. I somewhat think being platinum has helped that. On the other hand even though platinum’s and golds board in group one, that’s a non issue for me, However, I have phoned in a few times recently and have noticed that I’m getting 5 to 10 minute hold times, while tthis hasn’t happened in the past being a platinum. If you have the mileage plus explorer card it’s only $95 a year I too have Amex platinum and I keep them both,