I see them as price segmentation on free time. If you have enough free time to keep track of the whole loyalty points system and game frequent flyer points, you

I see them as price segmentation on free time. If you have enough free time to keep track of the whole loyalty points system and game frequent flyer points, you can save a few bucks. If you'd rather not bother, you'll spend a little bit more. Personally, I'm fine with spending a few more bucks for trips I actually want to make in exchange for ignoring all of these schemes. I also think that these systems, in addition to most retail sales etc, are created to appeal to a segment of the population that only really buys when they feel like they got some kind of special deal.