Please allow me to interrupt this I-told-you-so "necktie party" to add a matter of practical importance to everyone. To wit, if/when United really is cash strapped, it will attempt to raise cash rashly, which will create opportunities to buy stuff cheaply. And by "stuff" I mean, flights, upgrades, seats, etc. Be good little consumers and watch for these opportunities—if you can suppress your bloodlust long enough to do so.
RNE, looking out for the little guy.
Very good advice. Their pain can be our gain, at least short term.