Originally Posted by
HaleiwaFlyer
UA GSs would be over the moon to have access to Polaris Lounge on domestic flights, so I do see this as a huge win for CKs on domestic flights who already have access to FFL. Past couple of years, CKs requested more FFD opportunities on top of the 2 chits given, and here it is...so AA did listen to feedback, which is also a win.
I mean no offense, but just because somebody "wants" something doesn't mean it should be granted without careful consideration of the ramifications. I'm aware that UA GS's would be "over the moon" to have Polaris Lounge access on domestic flights, but that doesn't mean UA should cave. Polaris lounges are quite often over crowed as it is and adding in GS domestic access would further exacerbate the issue and dilute the experience for all. I firmly believe that a businesses best customers should be treated well and in fact better than others, but that doesn't mean I believe they should simply be granted anything and everything their little hearts desire.
Originally Posted by
HaleiwaFlyer
<snip>I don't think non CK flyers will spend miles on both FFL and FFD.
You might be right, hard to say. Yet I'm continually surprised at what human beings seem to be willing to do these days in order to access lounges and "Instagram worthy" experiences. Its just getting bizarrely out of control...
Originally Posted by
HaleiwaFlyer
Lastly, this may dispel the myth or speculation that FFD is going away completely once F class is eliminated. More utilization means less chance of eliminating FFD altogether, or in the future "Flagship-Business Premier-Dining." I think we are seeing the start of AA LP program evolving to the unbundling of benefits, to purchasable ones (ie. FFL, FFD, Five Star Select....etc). You no longer have to be top elite to obtain those benefits, and can buy each benefit ala carte, as you desire.
Also, it is a positive for a subset of CKs who connect or originate at DFW for domestic afternoon flights and want a place to escape busy FFL times or have abit better food/drink options.
Let me ask you this... can you point to any lounge experience, whatsoever, any... that has gotten better or improved when access has been expanded/broadened? Any? Amex CL, Capitol One, airline lounges, etc?
I know you think broadening access will not impact things, but never underestimate that in this game, we see this time and time again. The FFDs are very, very small physical spaces and my guess is there will be times now where the experience will be less than it was with more people in that space (particularly at peak times). Now all that said, and to your point, if that keeps these things open then I guess that is a net postive. But, personally, with all the dllution over the years in premium experiences (e.g. lounge over crowding, etc). I want to see some experiences remain premium/exclusive for those that desire them and can achieve them, even when it will often screen me out (which will be often).
But, hey, we'll see how it goes, My overall fear is that in a world literally swimming in miles, you might find there are a lot more takers for this than you expect and the experience will ultimately be downgraded over time. We shall see and it's a prediction that I'd be delighted to be wrong about.
Regards