I'm looking at options for a business trip to Asia (CLE-PVG) early next year. If I stay within the Star Alliance, there's a very good chance my itinerary will involve segments on AC (CLE-YYZ-PVG), NH (PVG-NRT), and UA (NRT-SFO-CLE). There are UA-only itinerary options, but their costs are nearly double the AC-NH-UA option. Corporate travel policy frowns on that.
I'm trying to evaluate what the impact to my MP mileage accrual will be if my itinerary is on a United (016) ticket versus an AC or NH ticket. My understanding is that, generally speaking, if I'm on a United ticket, I'll receive mileage based on fare and premier status; if I'm on an AC or NH ticket, my MP mileage accrual will be based on distance and fare class. I'll receive credit for PQS and PQD no matter which airline issues my ticket.
Is my understanding correct and am I missing any relevant details for my comparison?
Thank you.