United Airlines decided to make some changes to its frequent flyer program. These changes are expected to greatly benefit passengers.
A United airlines flight departs from Reagan National Airport on September 01, 2023 in Arlington, Virginia. Labor Day weekend is expected to see a record number of travelers in the United States following the busiest summer of air travel in history with over 14 million passengers, more than pre-pandemic travel rates.
This new initiative was confirmed by the major American travel company on Thursday, Nov. 9. The decision of United Airlines makes it the latest airline to tweak its lucrative frequent flyer initiative.
If you are a regular passenger of United Airlines, here's what you need to know about its frequent flyer program adjustments.
United Airlines Frequent Flyer Program Adjustments
According to NBC News' latest report, the adjustments of United Airlines to its frequent flyer program will be implemented in 2024.
These changes are expected to enable flyers to quickly earn their elite status through the co-branded Chase credit cards.
United Airlines explained that the adjustments will help its passengers earn up to 25 qualifying points for every $500 they spend on their Chase credit cards.
As of press time, United Airlines passengers can earn 500 points for each $12,000 purchase they make, as reported by CNBC. If you compare the current setup of the frequent flyer program to the upcoming changes, passengers can earn an additional 100 qualifying points.
Aside from this, the American travel firm also confirmed that it will lift caps on credit card spending that can qualify toward the elite status.
As of writing, United Airlines requires passengers to have at least 5,000 qualifying points to reach the silver elite status, which is the lowest tier in its frequent flyer program.
After that, you can build up your points to reach higher elite status and enjoy better benefits.
Why Achieving Elite Status Matters
Travelers wait for their bags amid rows of unclaimed luggage at the United Airlines baggage claim area at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on June 29, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. United Airlines cancelled hundreds of flights again today amid a chaotic week of flight cancellations and delays amid weather issues and strong traveler demand.
Of course, the main reason for achieving United Airlines' elite status is enjoying the perks that each tier offers.
Although silver, gold, and other elite status levels provide different perks, they all have some basic benefits you can enjoy. These include the following:
- No fees for changing or canceling any award ticket with a redeposit
- Priority check-in and security screening
- TPC Network golf course benefits
- United Cruises onboard amenities
- 3 free checked bags in any premium cabin
- Free confirmed flight changes within 24 hours of departure for the same fare class
- Extra benefits when booking a VIP access property with United Hotels
- Preferred seating for up to 8 travel companions
- No blackout dates for award travel on United and United ExpressBetter award availability in economy
- Priority award waitlisting
- Standby for international award flights
- Premier Priority Desk phone line
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