if it's not worth the transition to UA (and Star Alliance) and use instruments and earned upgrades that are usually available?>>

UA Star Alliance is trash. They are power hungry scam artists of the highest order. This is typical at check in "Oh, Mr ___, the plane is full but I think we can get you on with your reservation" and her very next sentence was: "Would you like to upgrade to a seat with with 5 more inches of legroom for $75"??? I told her no, but I feel totally honored that I have a ticket and will be allowed to board, moron"