Originally Posted by
mathgeek1978
My opinion is that boooking flights in your name is cheaper (no fees) than gifting/transferring (fees). ...
agree, the only real downside is the status of the mileage holder is used, not that of the traveller.
Originally Posted by
mathgeek1978
...Moreover, miles in an airline's account is just like cash in the bank. They don't disappear and will go to the beneficiary, just like bank accounts and real estate.
no exactly -- but upon request, with proper documentation and with a small fee ($50?) UA will usually do a transfer. But there are no guarantees and automatic rights.