I was extremely loyal up until this year when benefits in Air Canada's program were clawed back yet again.

I look for three things: value (not just price), destinations and service. All play pretty heavily in my decisions. Until 2001, AC had all those things and was at the top of the choices I had.

This year I am hedging my bets and going for top tier in LH Miles and More since AC Aeroplan has not/will not guarantee that there will be no further clawbacks of things that I consider important.

I would say I am extremely loyal but only if the airline reciprocates. I had opportunity last year to earn top status in two programs but stuck with Air Canada and tried to fly on Air Canada planes as much as possible. This year, with the downgrade of service and benefit clawback, I have been flying on whatever Star Alliance metal I want and it is somewhat liberating.