Join Date: Feb 2007
Location: U.S. (sometimes)
Programs: UA 1k 1MM, AA Exec Plat, Hyatt Diamond, SPG Plat, Marriott Plat, Hilton Gold, IHG Plat, Accor ?????
Posts: 1,398
I find that I have to work very hard to fly UA without paying much more. I start looking at fares way in advance and follow the fares. I am flexible with routings. I try to use miles and vouchers creatively. Sometimes I strategically defect to SWA (I admit it). Fortunately, I also have a lot of flexibility in might travel days.
I think business travelers might be out of luck.
I suppose this is why UA has MP ...to get us to pay more. When you figure in the double RDM, promotions, E+, status advancement, it's worth it to pay ~30% to fly UA.
What I'm scratching my ahead about is how we can have the triple combination of full flights, high fares, and poor UA financials.