Mileage redemption -- illegal business practices
 

WHAT IS wrong with this rule:
“FREE SPIRIT MasterCard credit card holders can book an award ticket with as little as 2,500 miles with government taxes and fees from only $2.50, when paying the taxes and fees with their Spirit credit card. ... For customers who do not have a FREE SPIRIT MasterCard credit card, award travel starts as low as 10,000 miles with government taxes and fees from only $2.50.”

It appears this is an illegal business practices. Discriminating against those who do not have their Credit Card for whatever reason (bad credit, unemployment, or whatever). At the same time it FORCES the consumer to have their card in order to qualify for the 2500 mile-redemption. Years ago companies use to offer 'stamps' or coupons for the consumer to participate in raffles. The law changed that. Now you don't have to purchase anything. So why this? Please help.

it is important to note that the rule doesn't discriminate people that have a credit card and those that don't. The rule gives preference to Spirit branded CC holders over any others (you could even have Amex Black but not get the same deal). This happens all the time (with other airlines/hotels, etc.) and is NOT illegal.

You could compare this to bundling of products and services in an alliance. E.g. if you have a coke can, you get $20 off the admission ticket to Six flags.