From BA today:
Dear Mr 13Alpha,
We’re always looking for ways to enhance the benefits of the Executive Club. You may remember that we ran a trial where members could earn Tier Points on all flights, including discount economy. We’re delighted to tell you that this will now become a permanent benefit.
As of 18 August 2009, you can earn Tier Points on every flight* you take with us and our oneworld® partners. This even includes flights on discount economy tickets, for which you’ll receive 25% of the Tier Points you’d earn on a fully flexible economy ticket.
I hope you’ll find this new benefit worthwhile.
A welcome change. But here's a translation for those of you not familiar with BA marketing speak:
"In the good times we could afford to lock you lowlife cheap ticket buyers out of our lounges. But now that times are tough here at Waterworld we need every penny we can get, and we think we might make a few more bob if we let you in - so we're willing to do so, but only if you fly 4 times as much as the real executives.
We're calling this a permanent benefit, but "permanent" means we'll do it until we think you've all forgotten we said "permanent", or until some new management arrives, or until the good times roll again".
13Alpha