itchief

My example on the one way trip was just what I earned on my trip last month, it could be a round trip in coach, but I would rather fly in business class. I have 300,000 plus in my AA account, not the only airline I fly. I do a family vacation each year, in First Class and I only pay the taxes. Last year to BKK on JAL/CX/AA, all in First Class, total of less than $400. It is a game with the airlines but you can win if you play smart. I am different from most people, I fly every week with my job so I am earning miles all the time. But anyone can do this with credit cards. I see too many people that love going to the LOS and only fly the cheapest ticket that they can find. If you are making 2-3-4 trips a year you are not playing the game right. Every two trips will get you free flights and also get you status with the airlines. Even if I fly coach with my status I can use the clubs at the airports, every little thing helps make the trip better.

Do you understand how much value those Airmiles have? I just took a trip to BKK last month, AA had a double miles deal. Since I already earn Double miles with my status I earned enough miles for a free one-way trip in Business Class to BKK. I have flown on all the non-USA carriers, some are good some not, just like anything else. As for you 'patriotic' quote, I burn all my AA miles on non-USA carriers that I like. But the main point of flying is to get from point a to point b safely.