What benefits should GS get in new system?
#48
Join Date: Nov 2001
Location: New York, NY
Posts: 639
I'd love to see United figure out a way for GS to board last--I actually have no interest in being on a plane longer than I need to, and know the PDB is totally inconsistent. If United could use digital tools (on the app) to 'reserve' overhead space, I'd be the happiest GS in the world getting to the gate 15-20 min before the flight and putting my bag right above my seat. Know this doesn't work for last minute changes, etc, but that would be a game changer for me. UA would need to commit some operational effort to it, but what a difference it would make!
on a simpler note, I'd take the saver awards for my family vs +1 -- I've been doing all kinds of gymnastics to get T-class seats opened for my 3 kids on flights
on a simpler note, I'd take the saver awards for my family vs +1 -- I've been doing all kinds of gymnastics to get T-class seats opened for my 3 kids on flights
#49
Join Date: Oct 2004
Location: Clinging to the edifices of a decadent past from the biggest city in America nobody really cares about.
Programs: (ಠ_ಠ)
Posts: 9,077
Not to go too far off topic but one suggestion I've made when I cross paths with UA execs is to allow Polaris lounge access for at least the east-bound "sleeper" flights (i.e. any LAX/SFO p.s. departure after 3pm PST where a J customer may prefer to eat on the ground to maximize sleep in the air.)
As for GS in Polaris lounges, we know UA has the ability to target customers in real-time based on anticipated lounge volume due to 1Ks on international itineraries being invited to IFLs ~2 years ago. Since I'd assume GS's are already (?) in the front cabin internationally for the most part, this seems like a useful soft benefit which a GS would appreciate - particularly if traveling in Y with friends/family - that UA could deliver with minimal hassle and only when their anticipated Polaris lounge usage would accommodate the increased volume.
As for GS in Polaris lounges, we know UA has the ability to target customers in real-time based on anticipated lounge volume due to 1Ks on international itineraries being invited to IFLs ~2 years ago. Since I'd assume GS's are already (?) in the front cabin internationally for the most part, this seems like a useful soft benefit which a GS would appreciate - particularly if traveling in Y with friends/family - that UA could deliver with minimal hassle and only when their anticipated Polaris lounge usage would accommodate the increased volume.
#50
Join Date: Apr 2013
Location: Bucks County
Programs: UAL GS & Million Miler; Delta Lifetime Gold; Hilton Diamond; Marriott Platinum; Legion Etrangere
Posts: 1,609
#51
Join Date: Apr 2013
Location: Bucks County
Programs: UAL GS & Million Miler; Delta Lifetime Gold; Hilton Diamond; Marriott Platinum; Legion Etrangere
Posts: 1,609
#52
Moderator: United Airlines
Join Date: Jun 2007
Location: SFO
Programs: UA Plat 1.995MM, Hyatt Discoverist, Marriott Plat/LT Gold, Hilton Silver, IHG Plat
Posts: 66,850
#53
Join Date: Jul 2014
Location: Rowley, MA / Edgartown, MA / Christiansted, St. Croix (USVI)
Programs: UA LT GS/4.96MM, Marriott LT Titanium, IHG Platinum, Global Entry, TSA Pre✓, Korea SeS, APEC
Posts: 579
I'll be somewhat annoyed if WiFi becomes free in 2020 as I just spent almost $700 for a years subscription for unlimited global WiFi. Also, if the entire plane is using the WiFi will the limited bandwidth make it unusable for all?
#54
#55
Join Date: Dec 2014
Programs: UA GS ,QF Plat
Posts: 686
Basically I'd like to see the program the way it operated at its inception;
A couple of observations:
- bring back capable/dedicated GS reservation agents vs too many subpar ones these days
- opening saver award seats for multiple, or at least a couple of family members travelling on the same flight as GS member (now down to 1 family member/companion)
- upgrades clearing: 5/5+, instead of 3/3+ (days ahead/number of open premium seats)
- better CPU rates, many GS dying on #1 spot on the u/g WL these days
- GS agents presence at gate; it appears the same number or fewer GS agents are trying to serve an ever-increasing number of flights
- IFL lounge access on p.s. flights (IFL > Polaris lounge)
Other GS might recall additional valuable features from the early GS days.
A couple of observations:
- bring back capable/dedicated GS reservation agents vs too many subpar ones these days
- opening saver award seats for multiple, or at least a couple of family members travelling on the same flight as GS member (now down to 1 family member/companion)
- upgrades clearing: 5/5+, instead of 3/3+ (days ahead/number of open premium seats)
- better CPU rates, many GS dying on #1 spot on the u/g WL these days
- GS agents presence at gate; it appears the same number or fewer GS agents are trying to serve an ever-increasing number of flights
- IFL lounge access on p.s. flights (IFL > Polaris lounge)
Other GS might recall additional valuable features from the early GS days.
#56
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Sep 2008
Location: Jersey Shore/YYZ
Programs: UA 1K, Marriott Plat, Hilton Diamond, Hertz PC
Posts: 12,521
1Ks on domestic flights tend to be road warriors, and know more their status.