Originally Posted by
hmy1
United awards E500s to those who fly frequently, not by "elite" status, which can then be used to upgrade. If you don't have enough E500s, perhaps you don't fly enough to deserve an upgrade.
There are many strategies that can be used to upgrade successfully, so it's not unrealistic for a saavy traveler to bat 1000 on upgrades. A lot of information can be found on this board. Are you trying to upgrade on an elite-heavy route? Are you traveling at a popular time of day?
Try coming up here to LAX and tell me about your batting average. It's even worse at SFO. I assume you're not suggesting that I'm not a savvy traveler because I "chose" to live in LA and SF.
As for time of day, I do have to pick my flights carefully -- just to get seats. By flying at inconvenient times, I've always been able to get E+, and count myself lucky at that. Next week, I'll be stuck in a middle (which is a very big deal for me) but, at least, it's E+ and only a 1 hour flight.
With all due respect, I'm pretty familiar with the information on FT.