I think UAL is a better airline for frequent flyers because of the economy plus section, and Premier bonuses, but NWA is better with shoveling the miles your way with route bonuses, connecting bonuses, check in bonuses, and even bonuses you don't even know about. I once ended up with 7500 Worldperks miles for a round trip from DEN-MEM-DFW. I also think, based on my experience, that NWA gets a bad rap with travelers. Their service has always been excellent for me. Daze