Thanks for the letter Bob. I too was happy that NW got close to a real Freddie!

As has been pointed out in other threads there is a lot of teeth gnashing going on about the possible merger. As a 7 year NW elite, I have stuck around during the lean times, strikes, and last years Summer of Love. If the merger only results in all the top benefits going in the toilet, then I will certainly feel betrayed, and will be looking for a partner that has not Tomahawk Chopped its FF program.

Tied for first, the most important benefit is being able to get awards fairly easily, with no nonsense fees, such as fuel surcharges, close in ticketing fees, or redeposit fees for Platinum members. Also, no more increases in the mileage needed for awards. In recent years, we've seen 35k US-South America awards increase, as well as 90k Biz class awards US-Asia. Looking at all the nonsense that DL has announced lately gives me a sick feeling in my stomach.

I flew 220k+ EQM last year, and 80% was on NW or its partners. I may originate my flight in the US, South America, Europe or Asia. If I'm dinged $200 for fuel surcharges on an award ticket, it's no longer a free ticket. On my NW flight this week, the FA reminded everyone about earning free tickets by flying on NW. Government mandated taxes, I understand. Anything else is just reaching into my pocket.

The other first place category is North American upgrades. I've kept loyal to NW, and often pay substantially more for their flights because of the excellent upgrade percentage. I'm averaging close to 90%, even though I often don't get upgraded at the 6 day window like I used to. This week I had a 4 segment, 2 day trip, and was upgraded on all legs at the 6 day mark. This is a very important reason why I fly NWA.

Keep the Chisholm folk! Customer service has almost always been the best thing about NWA. I can call up at 5pm, or 3am, and get friendly, knowledgeable folk. If my plane is late, most often I have my new ticket waiting for me when I exit the airplane.

Last month, I had an international biz class ticket on DL. My connecting flight was seriously delayed, causing me to miss the once a day flight to South America. No help from the agent at the gate. I was pointed to the customer service center outside of security. So were the 100 other people who stood in line with me for almost two hours. There was no elite line. No FC/Biz line. If this is what I have to look forward to, then I'm genuinely frightened.