I would hate it! I reached Premier Executive this year on ~$3,000 of tickets, and may well hit 1K based on ~$5,000 (several overseas using cheap-o or e-fares). If United based elite status on ticket revenue, this might barely qualify for Premier!

That said, I understand (and would grudgingly support) the airlines' rationale if they went in this direction. American already does, counting discount fares at 50% for elite status.

In fact, why not go all the way and base frequent flyer awards on the revenue, instead of the miles? But if it ain't broke, don't fix it!