From a selfish point of view, I would say that with some customers (particularly premium bookers) deserting BA, it does suggest there will be a few short term benefits for those of us who decide the service is worth the hassle:

• more short-term availability
• additional incentive offers to win back custom
• ba customer service walking on 'egg-shells' for a few months

On the flipside, there will of course be the problems with:

• encountering de-motivated staff
• negative adjustments to schedules to stem losses
• putting up with the bearded one gloating for weeks to come

oh well.