I totally echo Dyce's post. This will likely be my last year as a GS member, which is sad as I've really wanted to give UA my business. However, the cuts to the companion benefits have made it impossible for me to justify buying UA (outside of transcons and select domestic routes).

Since COVID, a large portion of my travel has shifted from business to leisure. Just as Dyce, I am quite fortunate to be able to buy international business or first class (although I still care about getting good value). If I could buy UA roundtrip in business and and open roundtrip business saver or clear upgrades for my partner in business, I would be buying United 100% of the time. Alas, that ratio is closer to 0%. As I'm not willing to play the upgrade lottery for my partner -- does United seriously think *anyone* would ever let their partner/spouse sit in coach?!! -- I have repeatedly bought business or first class on other airlines that were substantially cheaper than UA. Our last trip to Europe was in BA First, which was nearly 40% cheaper than UA business!

I would be lying if I said that was the only reason I've been avoiding flying United long haul. The food on UA has degraded to a point where I'm embarrassed to bring anyone else onboard with me. When I am traveling internationally -- either with my partner or friends and family -- having a nice meal and receiving good service sets the mood for the trip. At risk of sounding pretentious, the food in United business *pre-covid* was just good enough that I was satisfied and did not feel the need to pay extra to fly first class on some other airline. Now, unless I am flying domestic (where I'll simply skip whatever food is served), I'm happy to pay a little extra to fly a different airline that has retained a degree of dignity to its premium class service.