Originally Posted by
TalkingPoint
I don’t object to the requirements being raised. In fact, it may be beneficial to reduce the number of individuals at the highest tiers, creating greater distinction for those of us who are able to requalify. I will comfortably exceed 135k lp regardless of how they are ultimately calculated, provided that award miles continue to accrue based on distance. My only hope is that with higher requirements, the program also becomes more rewarding
I think you will be disappointed. If AS has muddied the waters and the "Status bonus" is simply RPs for having Status then the calculus changes. SFO-JFK is a frequent MR route, 2586 miles. Assuming a $250 base fare and purchased from AS: For a Titanium:
Segents: 500 SPs, 1250 RP
Revenue: $250 × 5 = 1250 SPs, 3125 RPs
Distance: 2586 SPs, 6425 RPs
For anyone on the revenue track, to earn the equivalent RPs as anyone on the distance track, you would need to pay 2586 ÷ 5 = $517.20 pre-tax Does that get you into F? Likely not!
Looking at September 30th, Main is $168.30($142.33) and F is $749.30($683.49)
Revenue Earnings:
Main: 712 SPs, 1780 RPs
First: 3418 SPs, 8545 RPs
Is there likelihood a decision to purchase F is made when on the revenue track? Yes. Is it a rational decision? For those that only fly F, it is moot, for the rest, well, you tied yourself into revenue for a year, is your hand forced?
Of course, the earnings on partner flights purchased at the partner site when revenue isn't known adds another dimension. If they are determined "as a percentage of distance flown," what are the percentages?
James