Chuck wrote:
big snip

If you feel as stongly about this "breach of contract" as I do,
contact the AOPA at or phone them at
800-872-2672. Let them know how you feel. Maybe MBNA will back off
once AOPA gets enough flack and brings pressure on MBNA.


I'm glad you put "breach of contract" in quotes, as it is clear that
you didn't read the contract when you signed up. I don't really blame
you, since it usually takes a high powered magnifying glass, a law
dictionary and 8 hrs. of spare time to get through it.

Simply put, just about every credit card contract offered in the U.S.
says something like (paraphrasing) : "We can change any of the terms of
this contract at any time, for any reason as long as we give you a few
weeks notice". Financially speaking, a credit card contract is so
one-sided, that it boggles the mind. Who would borrow money under
those terms? I don't see much difference between a CC and a loan
shark, except that the CC company can break you financially, while the
loan shark will probably only break your leg. Your only protection is
not to carry a balance on the card.

Forget about contacting AOPA. AOPA is a business. They make a lot
of money off their relationship with MBNA. As long as they keep making
that money, they're not going to be too concerned about you. One of
the ways AOPA makes money is by getting their members to use these AOPA
affiliated side businesses (AOPA insurance agency is also a joke).
While AOPA's core organization is a good one and they do their core job
well, to these side business, you are not a "member". You're just
another customer. AOPA banks on the fact that their good name will
lead you to use these products and services, trusting that they are a
reputable organization that looks out for your best interests. Sadly,
while the core organization may be doing that where flying is
concerned, these side businesses are just money makers. AOPA will
affiliate itself with the company that will give them the most income,
not necessarily what is the best deal for you.

Good luck with your quest,

John Galban=====N4BQ (PA28-180)