I absolutely love the United international staff and the lie flat seats for long haul. The schedule for transpac and tatl works well for me. Status happens either organically or not, I don't chase it. GS def won't happen since there's a few downsides as well and I take other airlines because of it. Minor peeves are the food and cleanliness of the cabin. More importantly is price, UA is consistenly more expensive than other airlines. Also, Air NZ and Quantas now fly out of NY direct, no more west coast layovers. Lastly, I can't seem to spend my plus points, which I would love to do for vacations or when my travel budget is getting low. I have been giving them away to family and friends, albeit with little success.