United shakes up MileagePlus, tightens basic economy policy
The Points Guy • • business
Key Points:
- United Airlines announced it will reduce mileage earning rates for flyers without United credit cards or elite status, while increasing rewards and offering discounts for cardholders and status members starting April 2.
- United credit card holders can earn up to twice as many miles per dollar spent compared to non-cardholders, with additional discounts of 10-15% on award flights depending on status tier.
- Basic economy passengers without elite status or a United credit card will no longer earn MileagePlus miles, continuing United's strict policies on no-frills fares, including restrictions on carry-on bags.
- These changes align United with competitors like Delta and American Airlines, which have similar restrictions on mileage earning for basic economy tickets and emphasize rewarding loyalty through status and cobranded cards.
