Originally Posted by
owen61
I never really hold out much hope for upgrades and the like, but I would love the dedicated check in line, elite security line (if offered, I know CO does it for silvers, golds and platinums, but others may only do it for their equivalent of gold and up), and priority boarding
I am a new NW Silver and UA Premier 2k, and using this year to compare. So far, I'm enjoying NW silver quite a bit. If you keep expectations low about upgrades, you will sometimes be pleasantly surprised, especially if you are open to connecting flights. and even if you don't get upgraded, you can often get bulkhead seats and exit rows more easily as a Silver, which often offer more legroom than first. in fact, if there's no meal on the flight, i think those seats rule.
As for UA, I'm still waiting for them to send me the premier packet for 2007. They do have Economy Plus seats for elites, which IS nice, but you have to seek out upgrades
Originally Posted by
owen61
(as a college student, I wind up violating the carry-on rules a lot and bring a bookbag and a roller-bag, and usually need bin space for both, so early boarding would be a plus.
A bookbag and roller-bag isn't violating rules, (I don't think) although my understanding of carry-on etiquette is that if space is tight, only one should go overhead, the other in the seat in front of you. i wish the FAs could police that a little better, as I feel bad for the suckers who board last and have to check in their ONE carry-on.
Originally Posted by
owen61
I also strongly dislike having to argue with people who sat down in my pre-selected window seat and want me to switch to an aisle or middle (selfish, I know, and anal, but I feel airsick in the aisles and middles, but not at the window...).
I don't think it's selfish or rude at all. I'm amazed at how often people ask me to switch my seat. And it's almost always a middle seat they want me to take. unless they are offering me the exact type of seat, I politely decline. i'm 6'4", and like my aisle. I understand people wanting to sit together, and I guess it never hurts to ask, but you shouldn't feel bad about not switching, especially if you're gonna get stuck sitting somewhere less comfortable. even if you get elite status, there will always be people who ask you to switch in coach.