If DL/AA/UA's FF programs are so profitable, why do they feel the need to devalue their programs twice annually?
(Maybe QF's program is so profitable because it's very lucrative and attractive. Like managing to get a few thousand redemptions with LY just since the merger.)
It's like going to a grocery for the sale of 1 item and end up buying many more, only to find out at check out that the sale on that 1 item is over. The store still had you checkout and pay for it.
Some time later Bingo moves in to town and the sales get real. The Bingo part did not happen yet, but with any downturn in the economy or more competition it can and yes there are always savvy costumers but sadly not to many.
There are many ppl that sadly pay United 180K for a UA everyday award for TLV route not realizing that spending on a CITI or CO double cash can get them a better mile/point per cent value.