UA cuts commissions- international
 

UA just announced that they are putting a commission cap of $100 for RT international tickets. Fortunately, other airlines have not follow suit YET. Obviously, this is a big blow to the travel agencies and also bad news to consumers since we now have to spend more time looking for the best fares (unless of course you don't mind paying the fee travel agencies are now charging). If the other airlines do not cap their commissions, I will make sure that I don't use UA for either domestic or international travel (yes, even if it means giving up my Premier Exec status).

This could also mean that travel agents will also frown if you want in their office wanting to use UA points for award travel.
(I ran into this problem booking my Maui trip and trying to use Westina nd Hilton points.)

But I'm trying to see what's the point of UA doing this? You are right AusTxHiker... this means I'm going to have to spend more time on the computer or on the phone getting the best airfare. My hunt for my birthday/Texas trip
fare took almost an hour (that's NOT on the phone) and I took UA because I want to get a start on 2000 PremEx qualification! CATMAN

Swissair just announced last week that they cut agents rate from 9% to 7%.