My email to Jeff.

Jeff-

I'm sure you've heard this from numerous people in the last 24 hours, but removing Expert Mode search is a kick in the pants to loyal flyers, especially those that fly a lot. I'm a GS. I'll spend over $60,000 this year with your airline. Last year, I spent over $50,000. When I travel for business, I can choose whatever airline I want. I choose United because I know that when I fly on my own dime, I can pick the flights that will result in a comfortable experience due to the perks of choosing you for my business travel. Now, that's uncertain. I can't know in advance what my chances are for an upgrade. I can't find flights where an upgrade might clear immediately. I can't know in advance how full a flight will be.

The net-net of this? I'm unsure if I'll keep all of my business with you or if I'll spread it further around your *A partners. Right now when I fly to Europe, I am careful to book on UA planes on UA flight numbers. There's lots of times I fly UA where LH would be more convenient.

Please re-consider this change. It will only hurt the flyers that spend and rely the most on you.