I think that most FTers think that comping the highest level of elite tier should never be done, and that if the airline has to comp it should comp level 2 of a 3 level elite tier. Almost all FTers will support comping P.E. on United but not 1K. Re: cancellation of flights it was a situation that United regulars had to face - in your case you at least had a choice of flying with UA or with your original airline.