I try to fly US for most travel east of the Mississipi (most fares do not price out from LA to west of the MS river). I was made silver in Dec. 2000 & recently used the systemwides for my trip last week to London. Just made Gold by challenge & intend to qualify by miles by years end. Am waiting for the fall Europe fares to go on sale & will buy a US ticket from LA to either FRA or MUC. US is the only airline that I am aware of where one can get systemwides at the 25K level & being able to use them! Will stay with US. I fly UA for places where US does not price out or sub $100 or so tickets).