With my most recent statement MBNA sent a change in terms & conditions for the WorldPoints program. THey have decided once again to enhance the program. The Terms & conditions read:

Summary: We are increasing the number of points needed for most international air travel. We are also decreasing the maximum dolalr value for the highest international air category. There is no change to the redemption requirements for travel within the continental United States or to Canada, Mexico or Puerto Rico.
Program Change: Effective for all points redeemed on or after December 31, 2005.
Basic Air Rewards: The number of points and corresponding maximum dollar value (MDV) required for coach-class Basic Air Rewards from the 48 states are:

• Alaska, Hawaii, the carribbean, the Bahamas, or Bermuda: 45,000/$600
• Europe: 60,000/$800
• Central or South America, Asia, Africa, or the South Pacific: 85,000/$1,150

FlexAir Rewards: The number of points and correspond MDV required for coach-class FlexAir rewards from the 48 states are:

• Alaska, Hawaaii, the Caribbean, the Bahamas, or Bermuda: 45,000/$450
• Europe: 60,000/$600
• Central or South America, Asia, Africa, or the South Pacific: 85,000/$850

Once again, MBNA has devalued the program and I can only wait until Bank of America takes over and the program becomes even more diluted and suddenly an annual fee probably will appear since Bank of America loves to nickle & dime their customers while offering completely uncompetitive credit cards.

JC