jrpallante

Caveat: My math assumes a 2-week advance purchase, which should be doable for most leisure trips, and that is where miles are most often used. There are some captive markets where the lone airline will flagrantly exert their monopoly power (e.g., Delta will hose you every time on DTW-CMH and other minor regional routes). Major routes, however, are served by multiple airlines, and you can usually purchase a RT ticket almost anywhere in the country for less than $475. Two weeks from today, NY-LAX is $412, and I have seen it lower. Obviously, pricing can be much higher for last minute bookings, or if your needs mandate a specific itinerary. I own my tiny company, so every dollar spent comes straight out of my pocket; consequently, I am a very frugal business traveler. That does not mean I am "cheap." In fact, I am one of those rare people who often pay actual money for a first class seat, but only if there is value in it. Since I do not have significant status with any carrier, I do appreciate that United is eliminating the close-in booking fee. That has often been the deciding factor between using miles for a spontaneous personal trip, or just paying cash and saving the miles for a more lucrative redemption.