Originally Posted by
jsguyrus
Is this the new normal? If so the value proposition of Mileage Plan has been substantially altered. Is this now becoming a coach only award system?
I know a few of you will hit me back with needle in a haystack award finds or the book close in and there MAY be something advice (who plans a Europe vacation two weeks out). I know all of that but I think my statement stands. Thoughts?
Sadly, I totally agree with your assessment, especially with regard to AS becoming an economy only (or predominantly economy) award system.
I have experienced exactly what you have in searching for Business Class awards through Europe or to Asia. These 250K to 400K award redemption levels are unrealistcally high - even if the space were on Emirates or Singapore, and BA requiring an additional and exorbitant $700 to $1000 really defeats the purpose / benefit of "award" travel.
Mileage Plan's economy awards are excellent value on most of its partner carriers to most anywhere in the world, which is great for those travelers who don't fly all that often and thus don't earn all that many miles.
For those of us road warriors who do, however, perhaps the most anticipated and appreciated benefit of international award travel is the ability to reward ourselves with premium class travel at reasonable redemption levels. These new premium class redemption amounts are, in my opinion, unrealistic given how much Butt In Seat time we invest to earn the requisite miles.
Twice now, I have paid out $2300 to $2550 for one way Business Class tickets home from Indonesia rather than give up 200K or more for an award seat, and I feel like I get better value for having done so.
Bottom line - I fly too hard and spend too much money on my day to day tickets to casually part with 250K+ miles for a one way award - even on the likes of Qatar Airways.