Originally Posted by
Viajero
I beg to differ. The new service adds a new NA gateway to/from South America, increasing the ways in which the NA segments can be taken. If you have ever struggled to construct an efficient NA itin on the way to/from SA you will understand why having a new gateway is significant.
Having an extra gateway is also very handy if you take advantage of the right to transit the US which is a potent way to push the miles count. E.g. one can now do lhr-lax-[NA segments]-LAX-SCL-[SA segments]-EZE-ORD-PEK which if you actually want to go to China is a Good Thing (tm).