Hmm...the article doesn't explain why this policy is a "kick in the teeth."
Possibly be meaning that f/as and other employees will most likely not fly "up front" anymore? Oh well? Employee travel for personal use has always been SPACE AVAILABLE. It's not guaranteed, nor was a seat up in first/business.
Now, if by UA instituting this new policy, the SPACE A benefits were eliminated, THAT would be a kick in the teeth. Otherwise...I don't get where they are coming from.