Isn't getting passengers to buy more expensive fares (to be paid for by someone else, here, local government) one of the big reasons there are frequent flyer programs.

Personally, I have a rule (usually followed) to not pay a penny more for anything to get miles. Of course, I pay for my travel myself.

UAL's recent devaluation would have hurt a lot more if I had actually paid for my UAL miles

One of the major accomplishments of the GOP congress was to eliminate the onerous FF rules. Under current law, all government employees are permitted to keep and use their miles as they see fit. Also, the restrictions on travel in C and F have been modified. Employees may use their own miles or comp or paid upgrades at their own expense on any flight, including government travel. Of course, use of government funds for travel in C or F is strictly prohibited, with the exception of 12+ hour overseas flights.

This thread is hopelessly outdated, full of no-longer-correct info, and should be closed.