Hi, I have some noobie questions, using United Mileage Plus. I just happened to qualify for Premier Gold for 2023 last year. I normally don’t fly United a lot and wasn’t going to worry about status for next year, but I’m taking a trip to New Zealand and decided to book a flight on Air New Zealand, hoping there would be some perks, like a better economy seat or something, but I’ve had trouble figuring out the rules.

Another thing I read is that when you book on partner airlines, earning PQP points is easier because it’s based on miles flown instead of what you pay, which is how you earn on United.
- when I get to checkout, it shows the fare class is actually economy S. According to the United Mileage Chart, does that mean I only earn 50% miles, which means 50% of the PQP? No matter that United Star Alliance Gold Status earns 8x?
- if the difference in fare is only $100 less flying on United metal, is it just wiser to fly United if my interpretation of the above is true?
- are there any benefits you get flying United vs. ANZ?
- I thought it would let me have the ability to select seats, hoping for economy plus, however, all seats available on ANZ are only available for a price.

Thank you, any other tips you may have? Thanks for any insight.