I am struck by several major changes by *A partners which are undermining this marketing network in my opinion:

-inconsistent mileage earning policies which was a core benefit of the alliance.

-several are now giving much less or even no miles (and ultimately status mileage) for discounted fares, eg BMI at only 25% on virtually all discounted fares, LH at only 50% on some, ANZ is a whole other story, SQ too.

-greater competition among *A carriers on some routes. UAL and AC are competing on a growing number of transborder flights ex YOW, YVR, YYC, etc.

-total lack of *A service on some major routes, eg LHR-MAD, CDG-MAD, just to name one I have discovered.

-lack of integration and still duplication of services in some markets, even double lounges for little or no reason, eg LAX.

-failure to fully integrate FF programs which still operate with different rules and considerable differences in benefits, conditions, etc.

-unequal partnerships, some just do not cut the mustard. No consistency in product. Some are terrific whereas others are sorry excuses to be in the alliance in the first place. BMI is a case in point.

I am really starting to wonder if the *A is falling apart? It certainly never reached the level of integration that was promised or promoted IMO.

Would love to hear other's opinions.