United Airlines adds new fees to cheapest business

Key Points:

• United Airlines is introducing a new tiered fare structure for its business-class seats, including a "Base" fare that removes perks like free seat selection, access to Polaris lounges, and an extra checked bag, requiring passengers to pay extra for these services.
• The Base business-class fare will also be non-refundable, non-changeable, and won't offer travel credits, marking a shift similar to the basic economy model now applied to premium cabins.
• This new fare system will initially launch in select markets this month and expand in 2026 to more long-haul international, transcontinental, and Hawaii flights, primarily on planes featuring United's Polaris business class.
• United's move aligns with a broader strategy to overhaul its offerings, including changes to its MileagePlus program and aircraft interiors, aiming to compete more effectively in the premium market.
• While this tiered approach to premium fares has been common among international carriers for years, United is the first U.S. airline to implement it, signaling a potential trend in domestic premium air travel despite possible passenger dissatisfaction.