Agreed with others - nice post. Sad that the industry has deteriorated to such an extent, but it's reality. I too am probably less loyal than in the past, but high level elite status still counts for something and can be a godsend in the right situation. Just don't count on what the airlines tell you to be true - remember that they are soul-less business entities - in the business to make profit - not to help you. The businesses deserve no love, but often individuals working for them do.