United Airlines Overhauls MileagePlus: What Frequent Flyers Necessitate to Know
United Airlines is dramatically reshaping its MileagePlus loyalty program, prioritizing rewards for credit card holders and those with elite status. The changes, set to take effect April 2, 2026, represent one of the most significant shifts by a U.S. Airline in recent years, potentially impacting how millions of travelers earn and redeem miles.
The New Earning Landscape: A Two-Tiered System
The core of the overhaul centers around a tiered earning structure. Flyers without a United-branded credit or debit card, or without Premier status, will see their mileage earning rates reduced by up to 40%. Conversely, those who carry a United card will enjoy increased earning potential, potentially earning twice as many miles per dollar spent compared to non-cardholders. This move clearly incentivizes customers to enroll in the airline’s credit card program.
Here’s a breakdown of the new earning rates for eligible United flights:
| Elite Status Tier | Current Earning Rate | New Earning Rate | New Earning Rate for Cardholders |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Member | 5 miles per dollar | 3 miles per dollar | 6 miles per dollar |
| Premier Silver | 7 miles per dollar | 5 miles per dollar | 8 miles per dollar |
| Premier Gold | 8 miles per dollar | 6 miles per dollar | 9 miles per dollar |
| Premier Platinum | 9 miles per dollar | 7 miles per dollar | 10 miles per dollar |
| Premier 1K® | 11 miles per dollar | 9 miles per dollar | 12 miles per dollar |
Cardholder Perks Extend Beyond Earning
The benefits for United cardholders don’t stop at increased mileage earning. The airline is also offering discounts of at least 10% on every award flight, with potential savings of 15% or more for Premier status holders. This adds a substantial value proposition for those already invested in the United ecosystem.
Different United cards offer varying earning rates. The United Gateway Card, United℠ Explorer Card, United Quest℠ Card, and United Club℠ Card all contribute to increased mileage accrual, with rates varying based on the card type and elite status.
Basic Economy Restrictions Tighten
United is further tightening restrictions on its basic economy fares. Beginning in April, most passengers booking basic economy will no longer earn MileagePlus miles, unless they have elite status or a United credit card. This aligns with policies already in place at Delta Air Lines and recently implemented by American Airlines, signaling a broader industry trend.
Here’s a breakdown of the new earning rates for basic economy:
| Elite Status Tier | Current Earning Rate | New Earning Rate | New Earning Rate for Cardholders |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Member | 5 miles per dollar | None | 3 miles per dollar |
| Premier Silver | 7 miles per dollar | 2 miles per dollar | 5 miles per dollar |
| Premier Gold | 8 miles per dollar | 3 miles per dollar | 6 miles per dollar |
| Premier Platinum | 9 miles per dollar | 4 miles per dollar | 7 miles per dollar |
| Premier 1K® | 11 miles per dollar | 6 miles per dollar | 9 miles per dollar |
Industry Trend: Prioritizing Cardholders and Elite Members
United’s move is part of a larger trend within the airline industry to prioritize loyalty among its most valuable customers. Airlines are increasingly focusing on rewarding those who spend the most, often through credit card partnerships and elite status programs. This strategy aims to foster stronger customer relationships and drive revenue through co-branded credit cards.
FAQ
Q: When do these changes take effect?
A: The changes apply to tickets purchased on or after April 2, 2026.
Q: Will I still earn miles on basic economy fares?
A: Most passengers will not earn miles on basic economy fares unless they have elite status or a United credit card.
Q: How can I maximize my mileage earning with United?
A: Consider applying for a United-branded credit card and striving for Premier status.
Q: Does this affect Premier Qualifying Points?
A: Flyers will continue to earn Premier qualifying points on basic fares, as they do today.
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