Partner premium awards split and sharply raised

140,000 miles (partner first, selected long-haul) → 240,000–260,000 miles

United implemented new award charts effective for tickets issued on or after February 3, 2014 (originally announced for February 1). The single chart was split into United-metal and partner/Star Alliance charts. Partner first-class awards on many long-haul routes rose dramatically (examples: North America–Asia partner first from 140,000 to 240,000–260,000 round-trip; Europe partner business from 100,000 to 140,000). United-metal increases were more modest. The change hit international premium-cabin partner redemptions hardest.

What to do: Partner charts can be devalued independently of metal charts; prioritize high-value partner awards when they still exist.