I think the move makes sense and I welcome it. I don't think $0.10/mile is that outrageous. If it thins out the elite ranks, then it should improve upgrades for the HVFs who UA wants to keep.
Two questions-
Does the total ticket price including taxes and fees count toward PQD or just the base fare? I have a ticket that cost about $3000 and it's roughly $2100 base fare and $900 taxes. Would this be $3000 or $2100 PQD?
By partner airlines, does that mean if I book any class ticket on any *A airline the $$ counts toward PQD or by partner are you referring to UX and/or codeshares?
Oh...just noticed you had that great little "most" qualifier. What UA tickets are excluded?