I can't agree more. Eva's infinity mileagelands loyalty program is, imho, an infuriating scam. In my years of flying with them, they've never granted an award ticket in a straightforward fashion. You're ALWAYS, always waitlisted and boy do they make you wait until the very last minute. On multiple occasions, it would be within HOURS of takeoff with the website showing several business class seats still available and they STILL would not grant the award ticket. My most ridiculous experience was within 3 hours of takeoff. I was getting ready to leave for the airport, and I was still waiting on their customer service line (an international call, mind you) to see what's what. Their philosophy is to try and sell every ticket for profit until the last breath. It is only then would they bestow an award ticket. It is NOT about rewarding loyalty. The result? The so-called loyal members are left hanging with uncertainty about their travel plans, what to pack for the flight, and everything until the very last minute. Maybe for some the thrills of uncertainty is great, but for me? No, thank you.

Oh and one more thing: Eva's business class used to be decent enough to somewhat make up for the sadistic mileage program, but recently the quality has gone way down. The cabin is showing age and lots of wear and tear. From the outdated tech to the very limited movie selection to the overall drab, faded look, nothing feels modern or polished. On my recent long hauls the food and accommodation quality has deteriorated, and believe it or not more recently there was news about moldy strawberries being served in business class. No joke. Just search for "Eva Air Apologizes After Business Class Passenger Finds Moldy Strawberries."

My suggestion? Just move your loyalty elsewhere. The new Star Lux is a strong alternative, and heck, even China Airlines is looking pretty good in comparison. I just don't appreciate a business treating their loyalty VIPs like it's charity to grant an award ticket -- especially when their website make it seem like it'd be a straightforward redemption. The reality? There is ALWAYS a waitlist and you should put the rest of your life on hold for Eva to grant/not the ticket. No, thank you. My entire family and I have ditched Eva, and more friends are following suit.