Well, it's going to work out quite expensive for me, so I am taking it to heart! As far as I am concerned, this is no theoretical discussion. I moved to BA about 10 years ago after 10 years or so at the top level of the ELAL programme (was then Platinum, before they invented "Top Platinum") as I calculated it would save me a great deal, which it did (more than I expected). I have experienced ELAL prices this year, and they are far higher than BA's. So yes, this is impacting me in a major way. If I remain with BA I will not arrive at my destination "ready to go", which will waste time. If I move to ELAL I will lose a great deal of benefits which are worth a lot to me and my family, and will be forking out far more on flights (especially to the USA).