As a Northwest frequent flyer, I have been receiving periodic electronic mail assuring me that I will not notice any negative changes or impact to my status as an elite member after the merger … and I believe them. Why would the merger negatively impact my status, when the airline can do that anytime. Read the fine print for your frequent flyer program. The airline can change the rules anytime they want too.
I believe Northwest when they say that I will not lose my miles or status as an elite member and that I will continue to enjoy the high level of service as a loyal customer. This makes sense for many reasons. The reason that frequent flyer programs are effective is that we expect to accrue some benefit. I certainly do. Federal regulators would also be skittish about future mergers if passengers were completely abused. The airline would also risk losing a loyal customer, assuming that there is still competition.
I don’t know about better service, but I expect to keep my miles and status … they just may not be worth much after the merger though. The airlines have never needed a “good” reason to redefine miles programs and the benefits of elite status, so why blame the merger.
