Complaints,

1. 30 Day rule for International/Hawaii upgrades. That issue is a dead horse here, but is an IDIOTIC rule.

2. Comped Platinum Status. I can understand that CO would need to offer comps to remain competitive. BUT, if CO competitors do not offer Top Level Status when comping, CO should not either. This issue is a slap in the face to ALL elite members, not just platinums. I have often said that a comp should be in the form of a challenge.

3. Account Balances on the internet. CO needs to get with the rest of the industry on that one.

Constructive Criticism:

1. Lack of a complimentary confirmable upgrade is hurting CO. As a suggestion, I would say give out 2 with the elite packet and then give out 2 for every 20,000 flight miles beyond 75,000. That would then give an early qualifying Platinum some incentive to stay loyal to CO.

2. Either do not give out Priority Handling tags, or train your staff as to what they mean. Too many CO rampers think that Priority Handling means "Send this bag out LAST".

Positives,

1. Reliable Airline. Yes, they pad the schedule. That is more a result of the antiquated ATC system, than CO's failings. BUT, they get you and your bags to your destination on time more than most of the other airlines.

2. Unlimited Upgrades. Look at the boards for the other airlines. Their lower level elites do not have upgrade percentages anywhere near those of CO lower level elites. And, if they are able to secure an upgrade, they have to use certificates. EUA notwithstanding, a CO elite who does not live in, nor flies to a hub city, rarely flies coach.

3. Friendly Staff. LAX and the HP cities are an exception. The "Friendy SW Staff" is IMO, a myth. I think consistently across the board, CO has the friendliest staff.

Freddie

As far as the Freddie is concerned, I have experience with the US, AA and DL programs. CO is still the best. If I vote for another airline this year, it will be a protest vote over the Platinum Comping Issue.