Originally Posted by garykung

While I agree it is a legitimate concern, but definitely NOT now.

Without the necessary miles, regardless how the program changes, it is moot to talk about inventories and beyond. Frankly, the way I see it, until OP has obtained all the necessary miles, the chance for OP having the family trip now is practically NIL unless OP pays cash. This is why OP should plan a paid ticket trip now rather than an award trip.