United Airlines Flight Change Policy
United Airlines has recently implemented a change fee waiver for most domestic flights within the United States, as well as flights between the U.S. and Mexico or the Caribbean. This means that you can modify your flight without incurring any additional fees, except for basic economy tickets. However, it's important to note that this policy does not apply to international flights, including those originating outside the United States.
For basic economy fares, there may be a change fee imposed, although there are certain exceptions. Basic economy tickets for international travel issued before July 31, 2021, can be changed without any fees. However, it's essential to keep in mind that basic economy tickets are generally nonchangeable and nonrefundable.
If you have purchased travel insurance, you may be eligible for reimbursement of the cost of a new flight in the event of a covered reason for the change. It's always a good idea to review the terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to understand the coverage and claims process.
United Airlines Standby Policy
When it comes to standby travel, United Airlines offers a generous policy that allows any passenger, regardless of ticket type or class of service, to fly standby on a flight departing within 24 hours of their originally booked travel. This means that you have the flexibility to take an earlier or later flight without incurring any standby fees.
MileagePlus elite status holders, also known as Premier members, enjoy additional benefits when it comes to standby travel. Premier members can confirm a seat on the same day with the same departure and arrival cities as their original ticket, without paying a fee, as long as the new seat is in the same fare class. If no seats are available in the purchased fare class, a fare difference may apply.
Non-Premier MileagePlus members and general nonmembers can also request to confirm a seat on another flight within 24 hours of the originally scheduled departure time. In this case, a fare difference may apply, even if the same fare class is available.
To get on the standby list, you can add yourself through various methods, including the United website, mobile app, airport kiosk, or by speaking to a United representative at the airport. Once added to the standby list, you can track your status and any available flights through the United app or by checking the display screens near the gate.
How to Change a United Flight Online
Changing a United Airlines flight online is a quick and convenient process. By following these four simple steps, you can easily modify your itinerary to better suit your travel needs:
Log in to your United account: Visit United.com or open the United app on your mobile device and log in to your account. If you don't have an account, you can create one for free.
Access your trips: Once logged in, navigate to the "My trips" section, where you will find a list of your upcoming flights.
Select "Change flight": Locate the particular flight that you wish to change and click on the "Change flight" option next to it.
Update your itinerary: You will be redirected to a page where you can select a new flight that meets your requirements. Make sure the new flight has the same origin and destination as your original flight and departs within 24 hours before or after your original scheduled departure time. If your new flight is more expensive, you will need to pay the fare difference.
Alternatively, if you prefer to speak to a customer service representative, you can call United Airlines at 800-864-8331 to request a flight change. The representative will guide you through the process and assist you in finding alternative flight options.
Changing United Airlines Flights Booked with Miles
If you have booked a United Airlines flight using MileagePlus miles, you can still make changes to your itinerary either online or by contacting customer service. United Airlines does not charge a change fee for award tickets, as long as your domestic or international flight originates in the United States and you are not flying on a basic economy fare.
To change an award ticket online, simply follow the same steps outlined above for changing a paid flight. Log in to your United account, access your trips, and select "Change flight" next to the relevant award booking. You will be able to browse available alternative flights and make the necessary changes to your itinerary.
If you prefer to speak to a customer service representative, you can contact United Airlines at the provided phone number to request a change for your award ticket. The representative will guide you through the process and assist you in finding suitable alternative flights.
United Airlines Baggage Fees
When it comes to baggage fees, United Airlines has a tiered pricing system that varies depending on factors such as your route, elite status, credit card benefits, and ticket type. To determine the exact baggage fees applicable to your specific situation, we recommend visiting the United Airlines website and reviewing the detailed information provided.
Generally, United Airlines charges fees for checked baggage, overweight baggage, oversized baggage, and additional or excess baggage. The fees can range from $30 to $100 or more per bag, depending on the factors mentioned above. It's important to note that basic economy fares typically do not include any free checked baggage allowance, and additional fees will apply.
To avoid or minimize baggage fees, it's advisable to travel light and within the allowed limits for both checked and carry-on baggage. You can also consider applying for a United Airlines-affiliated credit card that offers benefits such as free checked bags as part of its perks.
United Airlines Change and Cancellation Fees
As mentioned earlier, United Airlines has eliminated change fees for most domestic flights within the United States, as well as flights between the U.S. and Mexico or the Caribbean. This means that you can change your flight without incurring any additional fees, except for basic economy tickets and international flights.
For basic economy fares, change fees may still apply, although there are exceptions for certain international travel issued before July 31, 2021. It's important to review the terms and conditions of your specific ticket to understand any applicable fees and policies.
In terms of cancellation fees, United Airlines no longer charges a flat $200 fee for cancellations. Instead, the availability of refunds and the refund method depend on the type of ticket and the timing of the cancellation. If your ticket was purchased within 24 hours and at least a week before departure, you may be eligible for a full cash refund. After the 24-hour window closes, nonrefundable tickets typically result in a future flight credit rather than a cash refund. Basic economy tickets, however, are generally not eligible for these credits.
United Airlines Standby and Upgrade Policies
United Airlines offers generous standby options for passengers who wish to change to an earlier or later flight on the same day. Standby travel allows you to fly on a different flight than originally booked, subject to seat availability, without incurring any additional fees.
Previously, United Airlines charged a $75 fee for same-day standby, but as of January 1, 2021, the airline has eliminated this fee. Now, any customer can stand by for an earlier flight for free, regardless of their MileagePlus status or ticket type.
When it comes to upgrades, United Airlines no longer maintains confirmed upgrades when utilizing same-day changes. Instead, when you change your flight, you will be moved back to your originally-ticketed cabin and added to the upgrade standby list based on your applicable upgrade priority. This means that your chances of receiving an upgrade will depend on your elite status and fare class.
Additional Fees and Services
In addition to baggage fees and change/cancellation fees, United Airlines offers various additional services that may incur extra charges. Here are some notable fees and services to be aware of:
Pet Fee: If you plan to bring your pet with you in the cabin, United Airlines charges a fee of $125 each way on select flights. Additional fees may apply for longer stopovers or international flights, so it's important to review the specific requirements and fees associated with traveling with pets.
Priority Boarding Fee: United Airlines offers priority boarding for passengers who wish to board earlier than their assigned group. The price for priority boarding starts at $15 per flight segment and is available only on United and United Express flights. This service allows you to board in Group 2, following United Airlines elites and premium cabin passengers.
Preferred Seat Fee: United Airlines offers preferred seating options for economy passengers who wish to have a seat closer to the front of the plane. Preferred seats start at $14 and vary depending on the route. Basic economy passengers are eligible to purchase preferred seating as an add-on service.
Bundle Packages: United Airlines provides customizable bundle packages during the booking process, which can help you save money if you are planning to pay for multiple services or fees. These bundles typically include options such as checked bag fees, priority boarding, and other add-on services. It's important to note that bundle packages are usually nonrefundable, so make sure your travel plans are firm before making the purchase.