Hi big spender , wouldn't be easier to send a $50K check to UA and get GS status?

I am with jsloan. If one's flying business class all the time, status is not as important or necessary.

If 1k is really really that important, fly 4 really expensive UA flights, and you would be done for the year.

If I was flying J always, I would have status on all of the good airlines organically. I would still avoid United on international flying