I think that the new program serves to penalize fliers living at hubs to the tune of $6000 at a 1K level. Convenience is the primary reason I choose United but apparently it is time to start reevaluating. If you can fly direct, why add additional stops? If you are going to add a connection, why not look at other airlines? A 60% increase in spend (w/o PQF) is enough to start looking around for me.