| I don't use US airways much at all, although they are a star alliance member. I use United always. They are great with the instrument, I never have a problem. Although I do normally travel business or fist class whenever I'm traveling so that tends to help too. but it's all about racking up as many miles each year with one airline to gain all the perks they have to offer. I think it's worth being a part of the Star Alliance network, and trying to fly one airline within that network mainly. In the US they have Continental, United, and US airways. and then abroad it's airlines like lufthansa, swiss air, air new zealand, Singapore Airlines, Thai Air..... etc etc etc... as long as you stay in that network you'll always be earning miles, and using the benefits.
Easy,
Janek | 
