Originally Posted by
MRCT
This! I think that argument that it will free up lounge space is a misconception. People that lose 50k status (and this will also include many who are currently 75k) will just get the credit card to maintain the benefit. It will help nothing.
One change I do think is positive is the end of elites automatically getting gift-able lounge passes. I have enjoyed having these to give away to FOTSG friends and family, but these are also absolutely people who will not otherwise be present in the lounge.
Given that the credit-card people aren't going away, I think this is one of relatively few positive levers AC was able to pull in this area.