Is there a correlation with less expensive tix and reduced compensation? Historically, at least for me, United fares were generally more expensive than OALs but I booked due to potential upgrades as a 1K (which generally came through). However, with the new PQP I will not be willing to spend more on tix, so is United competing more on price? I must admit the tix I have booked through the end of the year (and used Plus Points) have been well priced.

I think I remember reading something where someone said without foregoing P fares it may be difficult to reach PQP - I could be imagining that, but do have some TATL P fares coming up and they were less than R.

Not sure there is a correlation but food for thought.