I have not found that CO really listens to there customers anyway.

I agree with some of your suggestions and disagree with others.

First, I think you need to look at things from the airlines perspective, which you are trying to do, but not being an airline executive we all have a hard time doing. Looking at things from a FF standpoint, you see FC as free and something they could save money on by limiting drinks, food, etc. If I pay several thousand dollars for a seat, I certainly expect free alcohol and the basic fare for a meal.

I am not opposed to putting the non-elites in the back of the bus, but what happens when those seats sell out and they have to split a group and one member of the group is in the elite seats getting free soda and the rest are in the back paying for them. Since this is not really an "upgrade" how does the crew explain the difference.

One thing I think would save some money would be to do away with the "priority handling" luggage tags,and the metal bag tag sent with your credentials. I like those "perks" but could easily wait for my bag to come off last.

Another thing that would make them some money would be to do away with the discount for PC membership. As a frequent traveler, I think the PC membership is an excellent investment and would gladly pay more for that service. When you actually consider your "cost per visit" it is very reasonable, especially at higher flying levels. They should definitly reverse the policy of charging elites an initiation fee though. Or maybe still offer a discount, but make it smaller. With the new access rules, why would you even buy a membership if you did not travel frequently, and either be an elite, or on your way to elite.

I agree that the inflight entertainment can go, and would probably save some money.

I also agree with Vulcan, the problem really is the fare structure, CO could compete with the low cost cariers, and do in some markets. I think PHL is an airtran market, that is why the fares are so low there. My thinking is if the low cost carrier can make it run on the absolute highest seat selling for $399 than CO should be able to make it on $800 seats.

I think CO must encourage any PAYING customer to continue to support them. You can get the money out of someone one time on the "new" enforcement of the rules, but you won't get it twice, But you can get money time and time again if the customer feels they got what they paid for and are appreciated for using the airline. I just don't buy the line that the low cost seats are putting the airline under. They control how many they sell at each price, if they don't offer it than it can not be sold.