two things really left a bad taste in my mouth to the point where i experimented with OALs (B6 and DL), and flew UA just enough this year to only qualify for gold in 2017:

(1) the devaulation of plats' ability to change/cancel award bookings (i wasn't going to requal for 1K)
(2) the fact that i couldn't get an RPU to clear on any half-decent FC routes (p.s. and EWR/ORD-HNL specifically). i'm going to be left with an unused RPU, or use [waste] it on an RJ flight as i only have one flight in the next few weeks.

i have no last minute regrets. i can probably live with massive BG2 lines, not having the false hope that my CPU will clear on a decent flight, and i think i can come to terms with not having PREMIER 1K on my BP.

i'll still be able to use *G lounges, SDC free of charge, 500mi minimums and get E+ at booking - and who knows, maybe a CPU to a mediocre domestic first cabin once in a blue moon. i plan to focus my award mileage earning more on the credit card, and won't hesitate to burn UA miles more liberally.

as an aside, the thing i miss most about UA when flying OALs is the UA mobile app. it's far and away the best i've used.