I’d like to think I’m a frequent flyer but apparently there are lots of people who basically live on United flights.



This year, I reached United Gold, the first time in many years. But before I had time to rejoice, I realized my loyalty to United will probably not get me much in return. My epiphany came after my most recent trip from SFO to Puerto Vallarta around Christmas. For my flight from PV to SFO, I couldn’t even get an economy plus seat, let alone an upgrade (one global service guy alone snatched most of the first class seats for him and his family). And don’t even let me get started on boarding. The pre-boarding line was extremely long while group 2 and rest was relatively short.



I’ve long heard that SFO is filled with GS and 1Ks but I had no idea it was this bad. So, if I continued United next year (2025), there probably won’t be much benefits for me even if my status went up to Gold. I’ve also heard Alaska has a higher rate of upgrading on domestic flights. If feasible, my tentative plan is to do a status match with Alaska and then stick with it the rest of year. But before I make the jump, want to hear some thoughts from you - the airline experts. Here is my situation:



1. I travel moderately for work, maybe 15-25 flights a year, to mostly popular destinations like Seattle, LA, NYC and Austin.

2. Of course, it’d be ideal to get complementary upgrades, but my biggest need for domestic flights is first row economy plus seats. I’m not too obsessed with upgrades on domestic flights as they are typically short distance.

3. What I want the most out of an airline program is affordable upgrade to business classes on international flights, whether it’s by paying less cash or using miles. I travel to Europe 1-2 times a year, and Asia (mostly Hong Kong) at least once a year. I once got a cash + mile upgrade ($600 + 3k miles) to business on a United flight from SFO to Hong Kong.

Alaska can 100% satisfy my domestic travel needs but it’s very light with international routes. This is my biggest concern for switching to Alaska. I heard you can travel internationally on Alaska partner flights but not sure how well does that work.



Any advice is greatly appreciated!