Why are “million” miles flown the only threshold for UA lifetime status?
Feb 26, 2022, 9:57 am
#106
Join Date: Oct 2003
Location: DCA
Programs: UA LT 1K, AA EXP, Bonvoy LT Titan, Avis PC, Hilton Gold
Posts: 9,658
Why? Because UA sets the rules to reward LONG-TERM loyalty. I'm 49 and sitting at 3.6MM BIS. Would be over 4MM if not for COVID. It required a huge number of nights on airplanes, abbreviated weekends, and being the road warrior every year since graduating university. UA values short-term profit (GS program) and long-term loyalty (MM program).
If based on spend - and you spend a lot and earn LT GS at 49 - then you might start flying other airlines as well. Say you are buying international J - you get all the benefits.
The mileage based approach is harder to achieve and for most - will take a lifetime. The intent is you fly with us during your business years - say 25 to 60 - then we will give you the status for a LT when you are retired.
Feb 26, 2022, 11:08 am
#107
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: 66,831
Remove the off topic discussion about "personal" vs "Other People's Money", the subject has been discussed numerous times and not directly relevant to this thread, should there be an alternative method of earning MMer status.
WineCountryUA
UA coModerator
WineCountryUA
UA coModerator
Mar 1, 2022, 3:45 pm
#108
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Jun 2010
Location: TOA
Programs: HH Diamond, Marriott LTPP/Platinum Premier, Hyatt Lame-ist, UA !K
Posts: 20,061
Why? Because UA sets the rules to reward LONG-TERM loyalty. I'm 49 and sitting at 3.6MM BIS. Would be over 4MM if not for COVID. It required a huge number of nights on airplanes, abbreviated weekends, and being the road warrior every year since graduating university. UA values short-term profit (GS program) and long-term loyalty (MM program).
Correct - long term loyalty. And UA wants to keep you with UA - particularly if you are a big spender.
If based on spend - and you spend a lot and earn LT GS at 49 - then you might start flying other airlines as well. Say you are buying international J - you get all the benefits.
The mileage based approach is harder to achieve and for most - will take a lifetime. The intent is you fly with us during your business years - say 25 to 60 - then we will give you the status for a LT when you are retired.
If based on spend - and you spend a lot and earn LT GS at 49 - then you might start flying other airlines as well. Say you are buying international J - you get all the benefits.
The mileage based approach is harder to achieve and for most - will take a lifetime. The intent is you fly with us during your business years - say 25 to 60 - then we will give you the status for a LT when you are retired.
David
Mar 2, 2022, 11:41 am
#109
Join Date: Nov 2014
Location: USA
Programs: UA Gold, Marriott Gold
Posts: 1,193
Will be better for me than miles flown on UA metal ...
Mar 2, 2022, 12:22 pm
#110
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Apr 2006
Location: Los Angeles, California
Programs: United, American, Delta, Hyatt, Hilton, Hertz, Marriott
Posts: 14,799
I don’t like the idea, but I expect it will happen. I have a few ideas how, but I have no intention of sharing them, in the off chance that United hasn’t really thought it through!