Originally Posted by
eponymous_coward
I was here in SEA in 2012 when AS's program was much further away from being revenue-based than it is today, and DL decided the AS partnership wasn't useful for them any longer, compared to expanding in SEA. You make it sound like getting 30% EQM/RDM earn on Saver fares didn't happen years ago, and that the award chart and overall program hasn't had multiple devaluations.
The fig leaf of earning a mile per mile flown is getting smaller and smaller, and it's getting tied to earning revenue for Alaska (such as booking through Alaskaair.com or paying extra money for Main). We don't have fixed award charts any more (and distance is also a way to tie the cost of the award for the redeemer for the cost of flying the plane).
Also, LOL on better F seats on DL. I've sat in both AS and DL F in the past 12 months. Unless you're a fan of 2008 vintage IFE on a 738 that's being pushed into your face when the passenger in front of you of you reclines, AS's pitch and seats are more comfortable (I also don't recommend DL A321neo F unless you have a thing for aluminum park benches). Delta also doesn't fly domestic D1 consistently out of SEA (if at all) so comparing two airlines flying 738s domestic seems about right.
AS saver to 30% EQM only began in mid 2023. Without MP how many would pay extra for main? As to MP devaluation, we all see it and feel it, but ALL airlines have done so, so it wouldn't be a reason to jump ship. However, AS distinguishes itself with its miles flown program and it brings in and keeps its FF'ers. AS following the big 3 may mean the end of AS by way of HA, NW, Virgin et al. AS isn't big enough to keep its Elites by doing the same as the Big 3.