Originally Posted by
RobH
Will buying tickets from these alternate sources have any negative impact on ticket charges, IRROPS, or anything else? I’m thinking my 1K benefits offer sufficient benefits in these situations. If there are negatives, they will probably trump the (presumably minimal) benefits of the Orbitz reward program.
United's 24-hour cancellation policy only applies to bookings made directly with United; for other tickets, the travel agent's rules apply.
United may require that you deal with the travel agent for changes prior to the day of departure, or they may charge a fee to take over the ticket.
A travel agent may charge you additional booking or change fees beyond what United would charge. (In fact, I'm pretty sure Orbitz charges a ticketing fee, which likely negates whatever value they might have in their reward program).
If you fly on *A partner airlines, booking through United ensures, for better or worse, that the ticket is issued on 016 stock, meaning you get those rules: actual fare as PQP, 11x fare as redeemable miles. If you book through a travel agent, you may get a flight on non-016 stock, meaning that partner flights accrue based upon their individual tables. That can be good or bad, depending upon the airline and the fare.