I think that's a good point.
Plus, the airline's reputation is trash and brand badly tarnished.. but one area QF is probably "less" worried about in terms of this are the elite tiers due to the "status handcuffs" - now don't get me wrong, you lose a Platinum member and their revenue it's far more important than the once every two years flyer, but there's probably some thought (arrogance maybe?) that if the elites are still elite by now (and spending) then they will stay that way most likely after everything.. and as above, those who have left and not spending, then a bonus offer isn't likely to get them back (but maybe some great fares might?).
Plus, and let's not forget this, the CEO is the head of the company. I doubt she worries about such things - at best it would be line items in presentations from Loyalty. Now, they may pitch various options of course and the senior team may even make decisions, or at least green light it, but I doubt the CEO herself would push a specific thing like a promotion down the line -seems a little too granular to me.
That aside, it seems to me that the goal is to get trust in the brand back and confidence from customers. Status Credits aren't the way to do that.
Anyway whenever I see a thread like this asking when I think to myself that well.. it will arrive when it lands. I hope one lands for those that want it, but as usual I never expect or factor one in to my own plans.
