I would say that it's definitely a mixed bag. While I agree with all of your frustrations, I think the amount of knowledge gained about the way the airlines work and how to get the most out of my flying $ is certainly more beneficial.

For instance, I was able to extract myself from the Wednesday night ground delays from hell that many people on here have complained about, get a confirmed upgrade for Thanksgiving day, and also get on an earlier connecting flight as a standby passenger - which got me home for Thanksgiving on time with a *LOT* less time spent waiting at the airport or in an airplane.

The normal passenger doesn't know how to request these things, or doesn't even know that they're a possibility. I'm sure the elite status and AC membership doesn't hurt, but that's just another reflection of flying experience.

All in all, I'd rather have the knowledge and have fun maximizing my travel experience than to ride in coach blissfully ignorant of all that's happening around me.