I think the existing exception policy applies to all tickets (including international) and the new permanent policy is domestic only. At least that's what I gather from the post.
Perhaps the idea is that United wants flexibility to adjust its domestic schedule on a whim but thinks its international schedule will be more reliable after December; hence Unites is giving customers the appropriate reciprocal treatment in their fee structure going forward.
Agree. It would be much better if the new policy applies to international trips.
Nevertheless, it’s a change for the better. At least I can say goodbye to Southwest.