United just announced changes for 2004. Details remain a bit sketchy.
- “Our Mileage Plus program is ranked number one for one simple reason – because we reward our loyal customers better than any other airline,” said John Tague, Executive Vice President – Customer.
Ranked #1 by whom? Alaska Airlines won the Freddie Award for best program and America West won for best elite level.
Changes for 2005 include:
- Class of service bonuses count towards elite status. This way United rewards premium passengers without hurting passengers flying coach fares.
- Mileage bonuses upon qualifying for elite status — 2500 miles for qualifying as a Premier and 10,000 miles for qualifying as a Premier Executive. Interestingly, no additional mileage upon reaching 100,000 flown miles and 1K status.
- “Six electronic systemwide upgrades with limited restrictions for Premier Executive
