But don't the same rules apply? For arguments sake, lets assume that 75% of missing post requests are legitimate with 25% coming from people trying to milk the system or from individuals unaware that their fare class was ineligible for points. What is the cost to *A members and their respective programs to process each of these requests compared to the cost of developing a streamlined process such that they don't have to deal with the 75% of requests which are legitimate?

Given the sophistication of software design today (have you ever watched the video games your kids are playing?!?), you could easily reduce this latter number to almost 0%. So why aren't they doing this? Incompetence? Possibly.

Or is it possible that there is a significant cost savings? Once again, I don't have exact numbers, but from what I gather from other FTers, aeropesos cost AC in the range of 2-3 cents/mile. That's a cost savings of $+60-90 CAD one way on a TransAt flight from YUL or YYZ which doesn't post. Even if it's only 1 cent per mile, that is still a significant savings to airlines which already are battling with high overheads and fuel cost. On a flight to Australasia? ...you do the math.

True, there is the potential damage to AC/APs reputation which might arise from public outcry. But aside from FTers (which is a very small, biased sample population), what percentage of the public actually pay attention to their posts, let alone make their complaint public? And perhaps more importantly, what is the alternative for the dissatisfied customer who still wants to be part of a FF programs?

And I don't buy the argument that this is a *A issue. I fly UA, US, LH, BMI and SAS on a regular basis and would say that about +95% of my flights post within two business days. Clearly the name isn't an issue with these airlines. And I realize I may be somewhat of an anomoly but I'm clearly not the only individual who regularly has to chase after segs which have failed to post.

As I said before, I'm not trying to raise a consiracy theory. Actually, I am largely happy with AC/AP. I think it is the best airline in NA with the possible exception of CO. They offer *G status at the lowest mileage level of any airline, have the nicest lounges in NA and I can usually score regional tickets to pretty much anywhere in the Northeast for 15,000 aeropesos provided I book well in advance. Throw in the odd upgrade on the 777 and I'm a happy camper

But I still say there has got to be a significant economic incentive in this for them or they would be more proactive at seeking a more speedy resolution.