Why DM is worth it...
- Additional earning on DL spend
- The GUC's are easy to confirm at booking if you book well enough in advance. I have no problem using them ATL-ICN, ATL-HND, and ATL-CDG on the new AF 350. Last minute use gets you any available F seat domestically.
- C+ at booking is a nice consistent benefit, especially on domestic widebody positioning flights where you get the PS seat for a main fare.
- Never a worry about finding overhead bin space, even at the mid-cabin on a 757 thanks to early boarding.
- $700 AMEX credit is worth.... $700
- 30,000 SM's is worth $345 of friction-free use.
I view complimentary upgrades to F as gifts and never "expect" one.