Todos
← Back to Squawk list
Delta frequent-flier program now tied to airfare
In what marks a fundamental shift to its frequent-flier program, Delta will become the first major network carrier in the U.S. to have passengers earn award miles based on the fare they pay, rather than how far they fly. (www.usatoday.com) Más...Sort type: [Top] [Newest]
I've enjoyed using Frequent Flier miles over the years but, in the end, each company has to choose the way in which they "reward" their Frequent Fliers. When you become used to a system, it's usually a little difficult to change....
It's about time someone realized this! Why should I get the same amount of points as someone that paid a third of what I paid, when have to pay through the nose for a last minute trip. If you want the business travelers business, then try taking better care of them!
For the person who may be lucky enough to snag a last minute deal, this is a slap in the face by awarding him/ her less miles for the flight. If the seat had gone unsold, then Delta would not have that revenue. I say boycott Delta and if enough people do that, the company will have no choice but to rescind this ridiculous ploy to again screw travelers so as to enhance the bottom line.
I got my notification yesterday. Just another brick in the wall.
In my opinion, this totally screws the "loyal business traveler". I am an example of that - as a 30+ year business traveler. I am required to schedule and pay for my monthly traveling schedule by quarter. So, yes by "Planning Ahead" I am getting the cheaper tickets. BUT - I purchase on the same airline - always. And these are coast to coast tickets. So this airline is getting (has gotten) a ton of money from me over the last 30+ years. Apparently this kind of loyalty/spending means nothing. It's apparently all about that flyer who may travel a couple of times a month - but because it's last minute they pay a high price ticket. The airline I use in United - and I'm told that all the airlines are not watching Delta to see what happens...United uses this philosophy for their upgrades since the merger. If they use this philosophy for Frequent Miles - then what's the point of being loyal?
You're already getting the benefit of getting the same product for a much lower price. Everyone on that plane arrives at the destination airport at the same time. That should be reward enough in itself, especially if you're paying for your fares out of your pocket.
In addition to that, the airline gives you FREE bonus points that you may use for FREE future travel.
If the sum total of what the airline provides (product - hard and soft, service, timing, convenience, lounges, upgrades and bonus points) to you is sufficient for you to always book with them, then do so. If not, then act accordingly.
But what the airline offers as a bonus to some other passenger is of no concern to you. The same way that you haven't been concerned that others must pay much more than you for their ticket. It didn't matter to you whether they had last minute business or a sick ir dying family member or were just less organized than you.
You already got your rewards. Don't begrudge your neighbor their rewards.
In addition to that, the airline gives you FREE bonus points that you may use for FREE future travel.
If the sum total of what the airline provides (product - hard and soft, service, timing, convenience, lounges, upgrades and bonus points) to you is sufficient for you to always book with them, then do so. If not, then act accordingly.
But what the airline offers as a bonus to some other passenger is of no concern to you. The same way that you haven't been concerned that others must pay much more than you for their ticket. It didn't matter to you whether they had last minute business or a sick ir dying family member or were just less organized than you.
You already got your rewards. Don't begrudge your neighbor their rewards.
Sorry - I'm told that all the airlines are NOW watching Delta to see what happens.