Has CO officially announced that low fare tickets are worthless if not used?

Other than US Air, has/will other airlines adopt this policy?

If these changes are truly implemented then I'm off to northwest(they haven't implemented this have they?) and southwest.

I cannot see paying for something and not getting any value out of it if my plans (or client's plans change). I was more than willing to pay the $100 change fee. But to buy something and get 0 value out of it?

While I did't like the erosion of ff perks I put up with them as long as I got an occaisonal upgrade and that ticket prices were competitive. This policy change truly affects the pocketbook of the small businessperson.

No upgrades + ridiculous coach leg room +
zero value for non-refundable tickets + zero redemption possiblities + higher ticket prices = Southwest as a prime consideration.

I guess I better get used to the wide lines.