Originally Posted by
Often1
There is a significant benefit to a MP member flying on a non-UA *A carrier, namely miles/segments. UA has zero incentive to provide additional benefits which essentially subsidize another carrier's marketing.
The benefit of an alliance is the extension of the route network, the miles and so forth. But buying long-term loyalty isn't in the cards.
But UA get's paid for those and zero-cost basis, where there is a cost-basis for the UA if the person travels on UA.
UA may or may not make a profit on a traveler if they fly on UA. UA
ALWAYS profits when a member travels on a partner airline. For this reason, I think this policy is BS.