Originally Posted by AlreadyThere

I'll handle this...

Sorry for the stupid question, but how is one granted status?

As part of a negotiation with a company, UA may grant a certain number of GS-status accounts for x million dollars' company travel. The company can then designate who gets the granted status.

So, just curious, if you could spend that kind of money what would you fly? Seems like all airlines are pretty much the same. And spending $50,000 per year won't get you very far in private air travel.

In economy, most airlines are pretty much the same. But in premium classes, especially outside North America, there are immense differences in the flying experience. A number of European carriers, and I would say most large Asian/Pacific carriers, offer a premium product to which no US carrier can compare, although the foreign carriers' fares are often comparable or even less.

I don't know the rules. If you are on a K fare, its just never upgraded?

For overwater flights, K class cannot be upgraded with a Global Premier Upgrade. Only W class and above can be upgraded.