On Nov. 17, Continental and United announced that, next year, elite members in either airline’s mileage program will be eligible for free unlimited domestic upgrades and priority seating on both airlines (space permitting, of course). This move raises some interesting questions about what the future holds for the two carriers and the rest of the Star Alliance, but first let’s focus on how this reciprocal plan impacts elites when it launches in mid-2010.
More Seats, but More Demand
While the opportunity for free upgrades on two airlines instead of one appears to double available inventory, don’t overlook the fact that twice as many elites now have access to the same flights. Lower-level elites in both programs will have a tougher time scoring an upgrade because of the increase in higher-level elites.Upgrade Confirmation: Get in Line
Generally, the most critical factor in getting an elite upgrade is the confirmation window, but the new plan introduces a pecking order that favors United’s faithful.On UA flights, first dibs on free upgrades go to its top-tier Global Services elites, followed by its 1K and Premier Executive tiers. Only then are Continental’s top two tiers, Platinum and Gold, allowed to upgrade.
On Continental flights, United’s top dogs still get an early shot at the upgrades. Continental’s Platinums get first choice, followed by United’s Global and 1K. Then Continental Golds take a turn, followed by UA’s Premier Executives.
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Preferred Economy Seating: Unequal Choices
In this area, Continental elites benefit big by gaining access to United’s Economy Plus section, which offers about five more inches of legroom. And, an elite at any level can bring a companion to the cabin for free. United elites on Continental flights get the relatively meager offering of a coach window or aisle seat at the front of the cabin (if available). 1K and Premier Executive elites get priority seating privileges for a companion at no charge as well.With United elites getting an edge in upgrade availability, and Continental elites getting a shot at a more attainable second prize in UA’s Economy Plus, this seems like a draw.
An announcement this big coming just weeks after Continental entered the Star Alliance could be the first sign of similar agreements among more (or all) alliance members. US Airways, in particular, is a prime candidate to match elite status with Star’s two other domestic carriers. For better or worse, change will prevail in 2010.
For more information:
United Mileage Plus Elite Status
Continental OnePass Elite Status