Ok, thanks for this info.

I wasn't chasing status on United because I thought I'd never even make the first tier. But, looking at their website, maybe I'm close to Premier level. Here is what I need:

PQM 23,536 of 25,000
PQD $2,169 of $3,000
4 segments (this is done)

If I'm understanding, by booking these as a codeshare through United I would achieve premies status with this single flight. That would probably be worth it, and I am pretty diligent about doing the online checking 23:59 before the flight so I could risk it with the seats.

Am I right? thanks for all this info!