Just hit my 2P status that I've maintained for just about ten years now with forays into 1P from time to time. I have done whatever I can to keep at least 2P to keep E+, even when I was doing little business travel. One of the best benefits of 2P was E+ seating. The second free checked bag was nice, but I rarely used it. It was a nice to have if I needed it.
Over the past year, I have grown used to seeing my name at 20+ on the upgrade list, so I resigned myself to never getting an upgrade again. I keep coming back to UA because of E+ and thought that the merger was a good thing for UA, but clearly UA now has more than enough "good" FFers and those of us who have been steady, loyal customers at the lowest tier are being marginalized.
The E+ at check in will do me little good. Given the load factors that I have seen in recent travels, that means, almost always, a middle seat on larger aircraft and a window on the RJs if I want E+. Neither will work for me. Front or back isn't the issue, but legroom and shoulder room is something I covet.
Since the Visa card can get me 80% of the benefits (early boarding, one free bag), I may as well start shopping for other airlines and chase the lowest fares rather than stay brand loyal.
*sigh* I knew things were going too well.
