Why just MZT/LAX ? Doesn't AS continue on to YVR ? The MVP Gold upgrade will apply to both segments if available on that flight. Also they cannot be used on the cheapest fare. The value fare is useable, but has to be paid for upon booking, is not completely refundable, costs to change, does not give lounge access if you have a stopover in LAX, does not give FC bonus miles, and is not much cheaper than a paid FC ($150-160), especially if you pay a lot for the certificate. Its a short flight, anyway. We just get paid FC YYZ/LAX/MZT. It only saves us $200 one way, and with the cost, and the perks, I don't think it's that big a deal. I would much rather just use 10000 mp miles + the cheapest ticket if I was going to do that. But hey, to each his own.