Originally Posted by
outwrdbound
So overall, how does the hard product stack-up at UA when compared with AA or DL?
Mixed bag. Depends on travel region (domestic/nearby vs longhaul), cabin (premium vs coach), and preferences.
Originally Posted by
outwrdbound
How about employees and the United Club?
Delta employees try. They want you to get to your destination on time. UA not so much.
UC is a joke, but not much behind SC.
Originally Posted by
outwrdbound
Also, it seems in reading some of the threads on this board that it is very difficult to upgrade as a 1K, is this true?
Generally yes domestically, all three majors are engaging in extensive first class monetization (i.e. actually selling it) these days. OTOH it's generally pretty reasonably priced ($50/hr or less) to buy first over coach domestically.
Internationally it depends a lot on route, some have any easy time selling out (i.e. SYD, EZE, etc) while others are generally easy (AMS).
Originally Posted by
outwrdbound
Also, in terms of alliances, how do you feel Star compares with the others?
On most continents *A has the most/most good/best airlines, some continents they completely dominate (Africa), but they do have one weak spot (South America).
*A is the only alliance where earning is based on operating carrier/operating carrier's fare class (which may differ from marketing carrier's) rather than marketing carrier, so be aware of that. Also be aware of AC tango and LH light fares, which are like UA's new basic economy.