The new program clearly has several good benefits like points never expire and no blackouts. That said, as a very frequent flyer with a Companion Pass for the last two years, I can honestly say that obtaining the same level of benefits, like the Companion Pass, will be impossible under the new program. SWA built so much of its legacy and loyalty with commuter passengers, like those that travel just within the state of CA from city to city. But it is clear that SWA is turning their back on this class of customers now. Sure there will still be rewards, but not to the same magnitude and scope as before. For example, my last two flights were essentially $150 Wanna Get Away rountrips. Under the new program, that is 900 points, but would be 2400 points (1200*2 rewards using the existing credit conversion) under the old program. Essentially, I need to fly three roundtrip flights now to earn the same "value" as the old program.
SWA please remember who your most loyal customers are and make sure the new program does not adversely impact them. Working for a Fortune 100 company, a lot of us are struggling to find the true benefits of this new program. This just stinks of cost cutting!
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