Some of United Airlines’ best customers are not happy. Those who flew one million miles with United have seen some changes to their lifetime program. As lifetime Premier Executive members, these members used to receive two free domestic upgrade coupons every year and a 100 percent bonus on miles flown. Now that the MileagePlus elite program has been modified, the Premier Gold level that replaces Premier Executive only offers 50 percent bonus miles, which means the 100 percent mileage bonus one million milers used to enjoy is now cut in half to 50 percent. Plus, the free regional upgrade coupons and three systemwide upgrades are no longer offered. To soften the blow a bit, these members can now grant their same elite status to a spouse or partner.

Irking members the most were the recent promises from United stating that, “You will continue to receive your benefits as you always have” in the combined United/Continental frequent flyer program. While it’s true that some benefits will continue, such as Star Alliance Gold status and lifetime elite status, million milers now have lifetime third tier status. Prior to the introduction of the new Premier Platinum level, they were second tier for life. In response to the changes, a website was launched to bring attention to the devaluation of million miler benefits at http://millionmilersunited.com – Members who flew a million miles expected to receive a certain set of benefits and now these benefits have changed. MileagePlus members can sign the online petition to voice their concern over the changes.