So, like a week from now? :p

There is no rumor. Just folks throwing darts.

Not going to happen. :D

Lst year they actually improved the MM program. Making the 2MM level worthwile, by switching from 50k for life to 75k for life. In addition to 50k for another person.

About 200k miles from there. Another couple of years...

I wouldn't be surprised to see E35K lose MLL access all together. From full *G lounge access, to domestic AC lounges, to no guests, no access seems like the next step. I also think E35K may lose some of the checked luggage allowance, to make it more in line with P25K instead of E50K.

I'm not sure we are heading there just yet. The guesting changes for E35K have had a positive impact on crowding in the lounges. Taking away E35K lounge and baggage privileges will just cause people who fly 25,000-35,000 miles and have that ~$4000 spend to most likely be less loyal to AC. If that were to happen people in a similar situation to me would most likely start shopping around and booking the best deals as it would no longer be worth it to fly AC.

I could see them drop the baggage allowance, but I'm also not sure how much that actually costs AC. I'm still surprised they're so generous with *G though. Maybe they'd drop them both simultaneously.

I'd still bet money on lounge access remaining though. E35K is meant to compete against other domestic airlines.

What does WS Gold give you? 10 one-time entry passes?

Several years back, there was no E35K - It was Elite and Prestige at 50k and 25k respectively. I think this was added due to competition from UA. Lounge access isn't much of a prize, really - you can buy annual passes for $400-600 and have much less of a hassle using it.

That really depends on your usage though

Elite was at 35.

I'm kind of torn: on one hand, I really don't want this, since the 3 bags helps me twice a year, when I have to pack up and move my entire life to a new in Europe/NA. On the other hand, I wouldn't have to pay a premium to fly AC home anymore :D

So this bring out the point, what is the utilization rate?

If we set number of bags to n
count if n=3 on a particular flight for E=35K
divide by # of flights taken by E=35K

If usage is below 5% , is it really necessary to remove it? Its one of those things people really need once in a blue moon anyways. I have only used all three bags once since I become E35K+

Personally I take advantage of it all the time, especially when travelling with no status friends and family. Also comes in handy for ski vacations when extra bags are required for skis and boots.

I think I've done 3 once (had a friend with me), and 2 three times.

This thread is about 2018 program predictions, not 2017. ;) ;) ;)

*G luggage allowance wasn't adjusted... it's still 3x70pounds.