That’s a long time to be loyal to one airline. So when someone at that level says it feels different, that says a lot.
The old Southwest had a very specific vibe. Open seating, easy same day changes, FAs who seemed like they actually enjoyed being there. If those things start fading, the whole identity shifts.
Losing flexibility on basic fares as A-List definitely stings. That used to be part of the value proposition. And yeah, getting stuck in a packed row while empty rows sit nearby would drive me nuts.
At some point if the perks don’t feel special anymore, people will just book on schedule and price. That’s a risky place to be.
Sounds like this one really disappointed you.