Hey all,

This is my first post -- thanks in advance for your help! My big question is that I currently fly United (Platinum status) because I live in Chicago. My husband and I will be moving to Portland, OR, and I need to decide if I want to change over to a different airline. I'm thinking yes, given the devaluation of United miles and perks.

I'm looking at Alaska, given that it has a hub at PDX, but Alaska's flights are obviously more limited in routes than either Delta or American. They seem, however, to treat their customer better than either Delta or United. I know Alaska has partnerships with Delta and American, so does it make sense to go with Alaska and fly others when necessary? Or does it make more sense to go with one of the larger airlines so that I don't have to worry about not having access to perks (e.g. free upgrades) when I'm traveling across the country for work?

All input is appreciated!

(1) What is your home airport?
--> Was ORD. Now moving over to PDX (husband got a new job)

(2) What types of fares do you usually buy ?
--> Whatever gets me from point A to B. Varies, but tends to be V, H, or S class

(3) How many miles do you usually fly each year?
--> More than 75,000

(4) Do you have any kind of status at present? What is it?
--> United Platinum

(5) What is most important to you in a FFP?
--> Complimentary upgrades. Would love to gain lounge access.

(6) Which routes do you fly most often
--> Right now traveling predominently to BOS, NYC, and DFW

(7) Preferred Airlines
--> None. Not in love with United and would be open to swtiching, given a good status match program. One selling point is if the airline has a co-branded credit card that allows you to earn ELITE QUALIFYING MILES, such as American's Citi Exec card. United doesn't currently offer anything like this.

(8) Do you travel for work or pleasure?
--> Mostly travel for work. Some for pleasure.