Hate to be the bearer of even more bad news, but she could have flown First Class on those flights for even
fewer miles.
That's because United has had an "Award Sale" on flights of under 750 miles for several months now, thru the end of the year:
Now through December 31, 2004, you can redeem fewer miles for award travel on United, United Express® and TedSM nonstop flights that are 750 air miles or less, each way. Available only on united.com.
15,000 redeemable miles – United Economy® round trip Saver Award ticket
30,000 redeemable miles – United First® or United Business® round trip Saver Award ticket