Originally Posted by DCBob
Some changes DO result in a hefty fee - $100, but it depends on the change. The United website states:
Change in city pairs (change in origin/destination) $100
Change in connection points (rerouting itinerary using different connecting city) $100
Cancellation (recredit of miles) $100
Supposedly that is "only for changes that require speaking to an agent." But when you try to make an award ticket change online, you get the following message:
"Mileage Plus Award itineraries cannot be changed online. Please contact Mileage Plus Customer Service at 1-800-421-4655 to change your itinerary."
So you WILL pay $100 if you are changing the origin, destination, or routing.
You are correct, have to keep the original itineraries to avoid the fee, but I found it still useful in certain situations, sometimes more award flights appeared after I booked the award and I was able to change it to better schedule; It's also useful because I fly the same route several times a year, if emergency happens, I can just change the flight to a later date, I know I will fly it within the one year limit.