View Poll Results: What do you think of the recent UA changes in Changes fees?
Good idea: No Domestic Change fee w/ no rebooking residual AND No Standby fee/Free SDC all elites
148
64.35%
Good idea: No Domestic Change fee w/ no rebooking residual but NOT No Standby fee/Free SDC all elite
25
10.87%
Good idea: No Standby fee/Free SDC all elite but NOT No Domestic Change fee w/ no rebooking residual
18
7.83%
Neutral /don’t care about either
30
13.04%
Don’t like / think either is a good idea
9
3.91%
Voters: 230. You may not vote on this poll
Aug 30, 2020, 2:32 pm
Last edit by: DELee
Latest Update: 23 December 2021:
"Change fees are gone" (change fee waiver): https://www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/travel/notices.html#changefeesaregone
(change fee waiver) Terms and Conditions: https://www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/travel/notices.html#ChangeFeeTerms
New fine print (1 April 2021)
The fine-print on the change rules:
Related Threads
AA Eliminates Many Change Fees, Other Benefits 31 Aug 2020
Delta to Eliminate Change Fees on Domestic Tickets [Consolidated Thread]
Alaska Eliminates Change Fees (9/1/2020)
UA will extend BE/International change fee waiver (In response to AA?)
"Change fees are gone" (change fee waiver): https://www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/travel/notices.html#changefeesaregone
We've permanently gotten rid of change fees for most Economy and premium cabin tickets for travel within the U.S., or between the U.S. and Mexico or the Caribbean. There also won't be change fees for other international travel originating in the U.S. Learn more
For all other standard Economy and premium cabin tickets, change fees are waived through January 31, 2022. Basic Economy tickets can only be changed if they’re issued by December 31, 2021, for travel commencing by December 31, 2021. See terms and conditions
For all other standard Economy and premium cabin tickets, change fees are waived through January 31, 2022. Basic Economy tickets can only be changed if they’re issued by December 31, 2021, for travel commencing by December 31, 2021. See terms and conditions
Tickets: Applies to standard fare tickets issued between March 3, 2020, and January 31, 2022, and Basic Economy fare tickets issued between March 3, 2020, and April 30, 2021, or Basic Economy tickets issued between May 1, 2021 and December 31, 2021 for travel commencing between August 11 and December 31, 2021.
Changes/Cancellations: Customers with Basic Economy fare tickets issued between March 3, 2020, and April 30, 2021, or between May 1, 2021 and December 31, 2021 for travel commencing between August 11 and December 31, 2021, or standard fare tickets issued between March 3, 2020, and January 31, 2022, will be permitted to change without paying a change fee. If the new flight is priced higher, the customer may change for no change fee but must pay the fare difference. If the new flight is priced lower, the customer may change without paying a change fee, and standard fare tickets may be given residual value in the form of a future flight credit. If you purchased your ticket from a third-party agency, please check with the issuing agency for the rules of your ticket. Contract fares such as special bulk fares sold by travel agencies (e.g., opaque) may not be eligible for free changes. Any changes or cancellations must occur prior to ticketed travel date.
Please note: As of August 30, 2020, we no longer have change fees for most Economy and premium cabin tickets for flights within the U.S., or between the U.S. and Mexico or the Caribbean. We also no longer have change fees for international travel originating in the U.S. For more information visit united.com/changefee.
Fare validity: This applies to all standard fare tickets issued through January 31, 2022, all destinations, all points-of-sale, all travel dates available for sale, provided ticket number starts with 016. It also applies to Basic Economy fare tickets issued through April 30, 2021 or Basic Economy tickets issued between May 1, 2021 and December 31, 2021 for travel commencing between August 11 and December 31, 2021, all destinations, all points of sale, provided the ticket number starts with 016.
Miscellaneous: Fares, fees, rules and offers are subject to change without notice. Seats are capacity-controlled and may not be available on all flights or days. Some fares are nonrefundable except during the first 24 hours after purchase. Other restrictions may apply.
Changes/Cancellations: Customers with Basic Economy fare tickets issued between March 3, 2020, and April 30, 2021, or between May 1, 2021 and December 31, 2021 for travel commencing between August 11 and December 31, 2021, or standard fare tickets issued between March 3, 2020, and January 31, 2022, will be permitted to change without paying a change fee. If the new flight is priced higher, the customer may change for no change fee but must pay the fare difference. If the new flight is priced lower, the customer may change without paying a change fee, and standard fare tickets may be given residual value in the form of a future flight credit. If you purchased your ticket from a third-party agency, please check with the issuing agency for the rules of your ticket. Contract fares such as special bulk fares sold by travel agencies (e.g., opaque) may not be eligible for free changes. Any changes or cancellations must occur prior to ticketed travel date.
Please note: As of August 30, 2020, we no longer have change fees for most Economy and premium cabin tickets for flights within the U.S., or between the U.S. and Mexico or the Caribbean. We also no longer have change fees for international travel originating in the U.S. For more information visit united.com/changefee.
Fare validity: This applies to all standard fare tickets issued through January 31, 2022, all destinations, all points-of-sale, all travel dates available for sale, provided ticket number starts with 016. It also applies to Basic Economy fare tickets issued through April 30, 2021 or Basic Economy tickets issued between May 1, 2021 and December 31, 2021 for travel commencing between August 11 and December 31, 2021, all destinations, all points of sale, provided the ticket number starts with 016.
Miscellaneous: Fares, fees, rules and offers are subject to change without notice. Seats are capacity-controlled and may not be available on all flights or days. Some fares are nonrefundable except during the first 24 hours after purchase. Other restrictions may apply.
New fine print (1 April 2021)
- You can change Basic Economy tickets without change fees if the ticket is issued by April 30, 2021,
- and all other international travel without change fees if the ticket is issued by May 31, 2021.
- If the new flight is priced lower, the customer may change without paying a change fee, and may be given residual value in the form of a future flight credit.
Tickets: Applies to standard fare tickets issued between March 3, 2020, and December 31, 2021, and Basic Economy fare tickets issued between March 3, 2020, and April 30, 2021, or Basic Economy tickets issued between May 1, 2021 and December 31, 2021 for travel commencing between August 11 and December 31, 2021.
Changes/Cancellations: Customers with Basic Economy fare tickets issued between March 3, 2020, and April 30, 2021, or between May 1, 2021 and December 31, 2021 for travel commencing between August 11 and December 31, 2021, or standard fare tickets issued between March 3, 2020, and December 31, 2021, will be permitted to change without paying a change fee. If the new flight is priced higher, the customer may change for no change fee but must pay the fare difference. If the new flight is priced lower, the customer may change without paying a change fee, and standard fare tickets may be given residual value in the form of a future flight credit. If you purchased your ticket from a third-party agency, please check with the issuing agency for the rules of your ticket. Contract fares such as special bulk fares sold by travel agencies (e.g., opaque) may not be eligible for free changes. Any changes or cancellations must occur prior to ticketed travel date.
Please note: As of August 30, 2020, we no longer have change fees for most Economy and premium cabin tickets for flights within the U.S., or between the U.S. and Mexico or the Caribbean. We also no longer have change fees for international travel originating in the U.S. For more information visit united.com/changefee.
Fare validity: This applies to all standard fare tickets issued through December 31, 2021, all destinations, all points-of-sale, all travel dates available for sale, provided ticket number starts with 016. It also applies to Basic Economy fare tickets issued through April 30, 2021 or Basic Economy tickets issued between May 1, 2021 and December 31, 2021 for travel commencing between August 11 and December 31, 2021, all destinations, all points of sale, provided the ticket number starts with 016.
Miscellaneous: Fares, fees, rules and offers are subject to change without notice. Seats are capacity-controlled and may not be available on all flights or days. Some fares are nonrefundable except during the first 24 hours after purchase. Other restrictions may apply.
Changes/Cancellations: Customers with Basic Economy fare tickets issued between March 3, 2020, and April 30, 2021, or between May 1, 2021 and December 31, 2021 for travel commencing between August 11 and December 31, 2021, or standard fare tickets issued between March 3, 2020, and December 31, 2021, will be permitted to change without paying a change fee. If the new flight is priced higher, the customer may change for no change fee but must pay the fare difference. If the new flight is priced lower, the customer may change without paying a change fee, and standard fare tickets may be given residual value in the form of a future flight credit. If you purchased your ticket from a third-party agency, please check with the issuing agency for the rules of your ticket. Contract fares such as special bulk fares sold by travel agencies (e.g., opaque) may not be eligible for free changes. Any changes or cancellations must occur prior to ticketed travel date.
Please note: As of August 30, 2020, we no longer have change fees for most Economy and premium cabin tickets for flights within the U.S., or between the U.S. and Mexico or the Caribbean. We also no longer have change fees for international travel originating in the U.S. For more information visit united.com/changefee.
Fare validity: This applies to all standard fare tickets issued through December 31, 2021, all destinations, all points-of-sale, all travel dates available for sale, provided ticket number starts with 016. It also applies to Basic Economy fare tickets issued through April 30, 2021 or Basic Economy tickets issued between May 1, 2021 and December 31, 2021 for travel commencing between August 11 and December 31, 2021, all destinations, all points of sale, provided the ticket number starts with 016.
Miscellaneous: Fares, fees, rules and offers are subject to change without notice. Seats are capacity-controlled and may not be available on all flights or days. Some fares are nonrefundable except during the first 24 hours after purchase. Other restrictions may apply.
I just went through the process on a post-April 1st itinerary and was issued the new FFC vs ETCs. The agent tried to explain the new FFCs in detail:
The Bad:
1. No more ETC
2. No transferability
3. No combinability
4. Given there is no combinability, there is no more date-pushing (meaning new expiration date is most favorable of combined cert dates)
The Good:
5. Can use multiple towards a single itinerary (up to 10 she said)
6. Can pull from multiple accounts (3 from yours, 3 from spouse), so you don't have to split the locator to use from multiple accounts
7. Can be used on partner itineraries as long as one segment is UA
8. The FFCs show up in the account of the recipient and the booker. So I can see my spouse's FFCs if I booked the itenerary
9. FFCs now show up as a payment method in the app booking flow. For multi-passenger FFCs, both passengers show up!
I can live with all this, in exchange for no change fees, and reclaiming residual!
The Bad:
1. No more ETC
2. No transferability
3. No combinability
4. Given there is no combinability, there is no more date-pushing (meaning new expiration date is most favorable of combined cert dates)
The Good:
5. Can use multiple towards a single itinerary (up to 10 she said)
6. Can pull from multiple accounts (3 from yours, 3 from spouse), so you don't have to split the locator to use from multiple accounts
7. Can be used on partner itineraries as long as one segment is UA
8. The FFCs show up in the account of the recipient and the booker. So I can see my spouse's FFCs if I booked the itenerary
9. FFCs now show up as a payment method in the app booking flow. For multi-passenger FFCs, both passengers show up!
I can live with all this, in exchange for no change fees, and reclaiming residual!
If the new ticket costs less, the residual value from the old ticket is lostMultiple cancelled reservations cannot be combined to pay for a more expensive ticketStrictly U.S. and Mexico or the Caribbean only (excludes Canada) and excludes Basic Economy and International flightsWorldwide until Dec 31, 2020
United Airlines Permanently Eliminates Change Fees
Applies to all Economy and Premium cabin tickets for travel within the U.S.;
Airline also announces complimentary standby travel, becomes only U.S. airline that will let all customers in all classes of service fly same-day standby for free
With these new options, United gives more flexibility than any other U.S. carrier when customers' travel plans change
Video(1) Photos(1)
CHICAGO, Aug. 30, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The only thing constant is change and at United Airlines, some of the fees associated with changes related to flying are gone for good. The carrier announced today that it is permanently getting rid of change fees on all standard Economy and Premium cabin tickets for travel within the U.S., effective immediately. And starting on January 1, 2021, any United customer can fly standby for free on a flight departing the day of their travel regardless of the type of ticket or class of service, a first among U.S. carriers, while MileagePlus Premier members can confirm a seat on a different flight on the same day with the same departure and arrival cities as their original ticket if a seat in the same ticket fare class is available.
United is also extending its waiver for new tickets issued through December 31, 2020, to permit unlimited changes with no fee. This policy applies to all ticket types issued after March 3, 2020 and is valid for domestic and international travel. With these improvements, no U.S. airline gives their customers more flexibility when booking – and changing – their travel plans than United Airlines.
"Change is inevitable these days – but it's how we respond to it that matters most. When we hear from customers about where we can improve, getting rid of this fee is often the top request," said Scott Kirby, CEO of United Airlines, in a video message to customers. "Following previous tough times, airlines made difficult decisions to survive, sometimes at the expense of customer service. United Airlines won't be following that same playbook as we come out of this crisis. Instead, we're taking a completely different approach – and looking at new ways to serve our customers better."
The new change fee policy applies to all standard Economy and Premium cabin tickets for travel within the U.S. 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands and customers will not be limited in the number of times they adjust their flights.
Additionally, United is giving customers more flexibility to change their flights on the day of their travel so they can head home if a meeting ends earlier or enjoy a few more hours on vacation. With the ability to list for same-day standby for free, customers will now have an option to take a different flight with the same origin and destination airports as their original itinerary if space is available at departure. This enhanced option will be available to all customers for travel within the U.S. and to and from international destinations beginning on January 1, 2021. Customers who want to switch flights will be able to add themselves to the standby list through United's award-winning mobile app, on united.com or at the airport no later than 30 minutes prior to departure for domestic flights and one hour before departure on international flights.
The carrier is also improving the travel experience for its MileagePlus members including waiving all redeposit fees on award travel for flights changed or cancelled more than 30 days before departure and allowing all MileagePlus Premier members to confirm a different flight on the day of their travel. As a way to thank MileagePlus Premier members for their loyalty, beginning January 1, 2021, all Premier members will be able to confirm a seat for free on a different flight with the same departure and arrival cities as their original ticket. This expanded option will allow MileagePlus Silver members and above to confirm a new seat in the same ticket fare class if space is available. Earlier this year, United announced that it will extend status for MileagePlus Premier and Global Services members through January 2022. United also reduced thresholds for Premier qualification by 50 percent for each status level, to make reaching an even higher status tier easier.
For more information on United's new flexible travel policies, visit https://www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly...hange-fee.html.
......
Applies to all Economy and Premium cabin tickets for travel within the U.S.;
Airline also announces complimentary standby travel, becomes only U.S. airline that will let all customers in all classes of service fly same-day standby for free
With these new options, United gives more flexibility than any other U.S. carrier when customers' travel plans change
Video(1) Photos(1)
CHICAGO, Aug. 30, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The only thing constant is change and at United Airlines, some of the fees associated with changes related to flying are gone for good. The carrier announced today that it is permanently getting rid of change fees on all standard Economy and Premium cabin tickets for travel within the U.S., effective immediately. And starting on January 1, 2021, any United customer can fly standby for free on a flight departing the day of their travel regardless of the type of ticket or class of service, a first among U.S. carriers, while MileagePlus Premier members can confirm a seat on a different flight on the same day with the same departure and arrival cities as their original ticket if a seat in the same ticket fare class is available.
United is also extending its waiver for new tickets issued through December 31, 2020, to permit unlimited changes with no fee. This policy applies to all ticket types issued after March 3, 2020 and is valid for domestic and international travel. With these improvements, no U.S. airline gives their customers more flexibility when booking – and changing – their travel plans than United Airlines.
"Change is inevitable these days – but it's how we respond to it that matters most. When we hear from customers about where we can improve, getting rid of this fee is often the top request," said Scott Kirby, CEO of United Airlines, in a video message to customers. "Following previous tough times, airlines made difficult decisions to survive, sometimes at the expense of customer service. United Airlines won't be following that same playbook as we come out of this crisis. Instead, we're taking a completely different approach – and looking at new ways to serve our customers better."
The new change fee policy applies to all standard Economy and Premium cabin tickets for travel within the U.S. 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands and customers will not be limited in the number of times they adjust their flights.
Additionally, United is giving customers more flexibility to change their flights on the day of their travel so they can head home if a meeting ends earlier or enjoy a few more hours on vacation. With the ability to list for same-day standby for free, customers will now have an option to take a different flight with the same origin and destination airports as their original itinerary if space is available at departure. This enhanced option will be available to all customers for travel within the U.S. and to and from international destinations beginning on January 1, 2021. Customers who want to switch flights will be able to add themselves to the standby list through United's award-winning mobile app, on united.com or at the airport no later than 30 minutes prior to departure for domestic flights and one hour before departure on international flights.
The carrier is also improving the travel experience for its MileagePlus members including waiving all redeposit fees on award travel for flights changed or cancelled more than 30 days before departure and allowing all MileagePlus Premier members to confirm a different flight on the day of their travel. As a way to thank MileagePlus Premier members for their loyalty, beginning January 1, 2021, all Premier members will be able to confirm a seat for free on a different flight with the same departure and arrival cities as their original ticket. This expanded option will allow MileagePlus Silver members and above to confirm a new seat in the same ticket fare class if space is available. Earlier this year, United announced that it will extend status for MileagePlus Premier and Global Services members through January 2022. United also reduced thresholds for Premier qualification by 50 percent for each status level, to make reaching an even higher status tier easier.
For more information on United's new flexible travel policies, visit https://www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly...hange-fee.html.
......
AA Eliminates Many Change Fees, Other Benefits 31 Aug 2020
Delta to Eliminate Change Fees on Domestic Tickets [Consolidated Thread]
Alaska Eliminates Change Fees (9/1/2020)
UA will extend BE/International change fee waiver (In response to AA?)
Change Fees "Gone For Good"(WW ex-USA,non-BE), credit for lower fare!, Intl&BE waiver
Jul 13, 2021, 9:33 am
#586
Join Date: Nov 1999
Location: PVG
Programs: UA 1K 1MM, Hilton Silver, Marriott Gold
Posts: 318
I've searched through this thread and wiki but didn't find the answer yet. I plan to buy a ticket departing from China, and am not sure if there will be change fees if I book before July 31? This seems to indicate no - because it only lists "travel originating in Europe, Middle East, Africa, or India"
While under FAQs, it says "we're allowing changes without a fee for international travel" in the FAQ for "other international flights" i.e. those not departing from US where change fees are "permanently" gone.
While under FAQs, it says "we're allowing changes without a fee for international travel" in the FAQ for "other international flights" i.e. those not departing from US where change fees are "permanently" gone.
Jul 13, 2021, 9:50 am
#587
Moderator: United Airlines
Join Date: Jun 2007
Location: SFO
Programs: UA Plat 1.995MM, Hyatt Discoverist, Marriott Plat/LT Gold, Hilton Silver, IHG Plat
Posts: 66,857
I've searched through this thread and wiki but didn't find the answer yet. I plan to buy a ticket departing from China, and am not sure if there will be change fees if I book before July 31? This seems to indicate no - because it only lists "travel originating in Europe, Middle East, Africa, or India"...
Tickets: Applies to standard fare tickets issued between March 3, 2020, and July 31, 2021, and Basic Economy fare tickets issued between March 3, 2020, and April 30, 2021.
Changes/Cancellations: Customers with Basic Economy fare tickets issued between March 3, 2020, and April 30, 2021, or standard fare tickets issued between March 3, 2020, and July 31, 2021, will be permitted to change without paying a change fee. If the new flight is priced higher, the customer may change for no change fee but must pay the fare difference. If the new flight is priced lower, the customer may change without paying a change fee, and standard fare tickets may be given residual value in the form of a future flight credit. If you purchased your ticket from a third-party agency, please check with the issuing agency for the rules of your ticket. Contract fares such as special bulk fares sold by travel agencies (e.g., opaque) may not be eligible for free changes. Any changes or cancellations must occur prior to ticketed travel date.
Please note: As of August 30, 2020, we no longer have change fees for most Economy and premium cabin tickets for flights within the U.S., or between the U.S. and Mexico or the Caribbean. We also no longer have change fees for international travel originating in the U.S. For more information visit united.com/changefee.
Fare validity: This applies to all standard fare tickets issued through July 31, 2021, and Basic Economy fare tickets issued through April 30, 2021, all destinations, all points-of-sale, all travel dates available for sale, provided ticket number starts with 016.
Miscellaneous: Fares, fees, rules and offers are subject to change without notice. Seats are capacity-controlled and may not be available on all flights or days. Some fares are nonrefundable except during the first 24 hours after purchase. Other restrictions may apply.
Changes/Cancellations: Customers with Basic Economy fare tickets issued between March 3, 2020, and April 30, 2021, or standard fare tickets issued between March 3, 2020, and July 31, 2021, will be permitted to change without paying a change fee. If the new flight is priced higher, the customer may change for no change fee but must pay the fare difference. If the new flight is priced lower, the customer may change without paying a change fee, and standard fare tickets may be given residual value in the form of a future flight credit. If you purchased your ticket from a third-party agency, please check with the issuing agency for the rules of your ticket. Contract fares such as special bulk fares sold by travel agencies (e.g., opaque) may not be eligible for free changes. Any changes or cancellations must occur prior to ticketed travel date.
Please note: As of August 30, 2020, we no longer have change fees for most Economy and premium cabin tickets for flights within the U.S., or between the U.S. and Mexico or the Caribbean. We also no longer have change fees for international travel originating in the U.S. For more information visit united.com/changefee.
Fare validity: This applies to all standard fare tickets issued through July 31, 2021, and Basic Economy fare tickets issued through April 30, 2021, all destinations, all points-of-sale, all travel dates available for sale, provided ticket number starts with 016.
Miscellaneous: Fares, fees, rules and offers are subject to change without notice. Seats are capacity-controlled and may not be available on all flights or days. Some fares are nonrefundable except during the first 24 hours after purchase. Other restrictions may apply.
Jul 13, 2021, 1:49 pm
#588
Join Date: Sep 2006
Location: HNL
Programs: UA GS4MM, MR LT Plat, Hilton Gold
Posts: 6,447
Jul 13, 2021, 2:59 pm
#589
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Oct 2006
Location: SFO/SJC
Programs: UA Silver, Marriott Gold, Hilton Gold
Posts: 14,891
Definitely an option, though I'm worried what will happen to fares at that point, especially depending on how close to the time that happens. If it's tomorrow, probably not a big issue. If it's say, mid-September, I don't want to end up paying twice as much as I could have when many people rush to book. At least IME in the pre-COVID past, K or L fares to YYZ are very occasionally available, but not that often - I'm used to paying T, S or W fares, or sometimes even higher.
Jul 14, 2021, 2:50 pm
#590
Moderator, Omni, Omni/PR, Omni/Games, FlyerTalk Posting Legend
Join Date: Oct 2004
Location: Between DCA and IAD
Programs: UA 1K MM; Hilton Diamond
Posts: 67,141
Thanks; yes, it's a round trip and was flown (with both segments credited already, with the return flown this past Friday).
And yes, you're just about right about the breakdown under "Mileage Plus Accrual Details" (it's 437 and 260). But both segments credited as 125 PQP.
I'll forward the eTicket receipt when I reach out to MP tomorrow. At least the Q3 "welcome back" promo installment for that itin posted already and correctly.
And yes, you're just about right about the breakdown under "Mileage Plus Accrual Details" (it's 437 and 260). But both segments credited as 125 PQP.
I'll forward the eTicket receipt when I reach out to MP tomorrow. At least the Q3 "welcome back" promo installment for that itin posted already and correctly.
I'll be interested to see if my other future flight credit itins have a similar problem; I'm sitting on a few $k of FFC from 2020 that I'll be using for upcoming travels.
Jul 21, 2021, 9:00 am
#592
Join Date: Oct 2010
Location: UK
Programs: UA Gold
Posts: 66
Apologies if this isn't the correct thread, but I wonder if anyone can offer me guidance for the best way to extend the expiry dates of my ETCs?
I have three ETCs totalling $1300 and my wife has the same. The expiry dates vary between 26th August and 28th October 2021.
Previously ETCs had to be used wholly on UA or United Express flights. I presume that is still the case?
A major problem is that UA are not currently flying from Manchester UK. I won't fly from London especially when they don't have a partner airline from MAN. I also won't entertain having to collect my bags in London and re-check them.
I had hoped to use the ETCs to fly DUB-SFO-DUB in September with UA (Flying MAN-DUB Aer Lingus on a separate ticket) but travel to the US is looking unlikely.
Therefore, I am looking for the best way to prolong the life of our ETCs.
I have seen United's No More Change Fees - which specifically excludes transatlantic travel on tickets issued after 31st July 2021.
Presumably, I could
A) Book an internal US ticket as far into the future as possible.
When I am able to fly from the UK would I be able to cancel the domestic ticket and use the credit towards a transatlantic flight? Or would I need to 'change' the flight - in which case would I be allowed to change the dates both the departure and arrival cities?
Or
B) Could I book a ticket from DUB-SFO-DUB before 31st July 2021 for a future travel date (Say June 2022) and cancel/change this at some point in the future?
Or
C) Is there a better solution that has been proven to work?
On a separate note. If any options involve the issue of a FFC in place of our ETC that wouldn't be an issue if I'm correct that they can be using on partner airlines such as LH. We prefer to fly MAN-usa but don't mind flying via FRA or MUC.
Sorry if I've rambled on a bit but thank you in advance for your assistance.
I have three ETCs totalling $1300 and my wife has the same. The expiry dates vary between 26th August and 28th October 2021.
Previously ETCs had to be used wholly on UA or United Express flights. I presume that is still the case?
A major problem is that UA are not currently flying from Manchester UK. I won't fly from London especially when they don't have a partner airline from MAN. I also won't entertain having to collect my bags in London and re-check them.
I had hoped to use the ETCs to fly DUB-SFO-DUB in September with UA (Flying MAN-DUB Aer Lingus on a separate ticket) but travel to the US is looking unlikely.
Therefore, I am looking for the best way to prolong the life of our ETCs.
I have seen United's No More Change Fees - which specifically excludes transatlantic travel on tickets issued after 31st July 2021.
Presumably, I could
A) Book an internal US ticket as far into the future as possible.
When I am able to fly from the UK would I be able to cancel the domestic ticket and use the credit towards a transatlantic flight? Or would I need to 'change' the flight - in which case would I be allowed to change the dates both the departure and arrival cities?
Or
B) Could I book a ticket from DUB-SFO-DUB before 31st July 2021 for a future travel date (Say June 2022) and cancel/change this at some point in the future?
Or
C) Is there a better solution that has been proven to work?
On a separate note. If any options involve the issue of a FFC in place of our ETC that wouldn't be an issue if I'm correct that they can be using on partner airlines such as LH. We prefer to fly MAN-usa but don't mind flying via FRA or MUC.
Sorry if I've rambled on a bit but thank you in advance for your assistance.
Jul 21, 2021, 10:40 am
#593
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Oct 2006
Location: SFO/SJC
Programs: UA Silver, Marriott Gold, Hilton Gold
Posts: 14,891
Apologies if this isn't the correct thread, but I wonder if anyone can offer me guidance for the best way to extend the expiry dates of my ETCs?
I have three ETCs totalling $1300 and my wife has the same. The expiry dates vary between 26th August and 28th October 2021.
Previously ETCs had to be used wholly on UA or United Express flights. I presume that is still the case?
A major problem is that UA are not currently flying from Manchester UK. I won't fly from London especially when they don't have a partner airline from MAN. I also won't entertain having to collect my bags in London and re-check them.
I had hoped to use the ETCs to fly DUB-SFO-DUB in September with UA (Flying MAN-DUB Aer Lingus on a separate ticket) but travel to the US is looking unlikely.
Therefore, I am looking for the best way to prolong the life of our ETCs.
I have seen United's No More Change Fees - which specifically excludes transatlantic travel on tickets issued after 31st July 2021.
Presumably, I could
A) Book an internal US ticket as far into the future as possible.
When I am able to fly from the UK would I be able to cancel the domestic ticket and use the credit towards a transatlantic flight? Or would I need to 'change' the flight - in which case would I be allowed to change the dates both the departure and arrival cities?
Or
B) Could I book a ticket from DUB-SFO-DUB before 31st July 2021 for a future travel date (Say June 2022) and cancel/change this at some point in the future?
Or
C) Is there a better solution that has been proven to work?
On a separate note. If any options involve the issue of a FFC in place of our ETC that wouldn't be an issue if I'm correct that they can be using on partner airlines such as LH. We prefer to fly MAN-usa but don't mind flying via FRA or MUC.
Sorry if I've rambled on a bit but thank you in advance for your assistance.
I have three ETCs totalling $1300 and my wife has the same. The expiry dates vary between 26th August and 28th October 2021.
Previously ETCs had to be used wholly on UA or United Express flights. I presume that is still the case?
A major problem is that UA are not currently flying from Manchester UK. I won't fly from London especially when they don't have a partner airline from MAN. I also won't entertain having to collect my bags in London and re-check them.
I had hoped to use the ETCs to fly DUB-SFO-DUB in September with UA (Flying MAN-DUB Aer Lingus on a separate ticket) but travel to the US is looking unlikely.
Therefore, I am looking for the best way to prolong the life of our ETCs.
I have seen United's No More Change Fees - which specifically excludes transatlantic travel on tickets issued after 31st July 2021.
Presumably, I could
A) Book an internal US ticket as far into the future as possible.
When I am able to fly from the UK would I be able to cancel the domestic ticket and use the credit towards a transatlantic flight? Or would I need to 'change' the flight - in which case would I be allowed to change the dates both the departure and arrival cities?
Or
B) Could I book a ticket from DUB-SFO-DUB before 31st July 2021 for a future travel date (Say June 2022) and cancel/change this at some point in the future?
Or
C) Is there a better solution that has been proven to work?
On a separate note. If any options involve the issue of a FFC in place of our ETC that wouldn't be an issue if I'm correct that they can be using on partner airlines such as LH. We prefer to fly MAN-usa but don't mind flying via FRA or MUC.
Sorry if I've rambled on a bit but thank you in advance for your assistance.
As I'm reading it, the summary is this: You'd like to use the funds on the ETCs to book travel, but because there are no UA flights from MAN, you can't, and want to figure out the best way to preserve the value before it expires.
So, you're plan to book an 'internal US flight' could work. Note that once you book the flight, those $ will be locked up in the PNR, and yes, can be used on partner carriers, but note, would also only be able to be used for the specific travelers (and the benefit win of that point goes to the ETC - which can be used for anyone vs. just the person who's name is on it. Also note the FFC you'd get from canceling the itinerary in a new PNR you book are only valid for one year from initial issue - which could be a consideration point.
IMO, you're best option is probably to book a ex-US ticket as close to the expiry of the first ETC as possible. Note it does not have to be a domestic flight, could be any flight from the US (or Canada - I think) - that way, there will be no change fees. Then you can cancel those flights at some point and get the credit to use - it can be on any new itinerary, not just on the route you originally booked. Also, can be used on partners - though note, may be tough to find all partner itineraries that don't have UA segments/US destinations. Example: If you tried to use it to book MAN-FRA-IST on LH, for example, those flights very well may not pull up on UA.com. Maybe an agent/web support could help you, but likely not even. Just also note the first flight will need to be within one year of the date you issue that ticket - which is why it's best to wait until just before ETC expiry - to have the most time to rebook the ticket.
Along with the above, might be better to book a flight father out - if there are any major schedule changes, or flight cancelations, you will have the option to have it refunded. Though in your case, that refund would likely be back to a new ETC (and then you are at square one again!).
A couple of additional notes:
- when you cancel the itinerary that you book, the value of it must be booked for the same people - ie, if its you and partner, the value of each ticket needs to stay with that person (though you can split it if you are traveling first without partner)
- If you cancel the new itinerary, then book another of lower value, that residual then goes to another, new type of residual FFC, which you can use again. The residual FFC is kind of a cross between a canceled flight FFC and ETC - it can be used for partner flights, but only in the name of the traveler, valid for a year from when its issued (ie, change that creates it), and is applied during the payment process (you type the PNR number and last name during the payment screen to apply the value, then use a card to pay the balance).
Hope that helps (all these ETC/FFC stuff is clear as mud, right?).
Jul 21, 2021, 10:45 am
#594
Moderator: United Airlines
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Jul 21, 2021, 12:56 pm
#595
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Oct 2001
Location: Austin, TX
Posts: 21,413
Along with the above, might be better to book a flight father out - if there are any major schedule changes, or flight cancelations, you will have the option to have it refunded. Though in your case, that refund would likely be back to a new ETC (and then you are at square one again!).
I don't know that I can promise this, but recent reports have been uniform -- new ETCs, with new expiration periods, are being issued.
Also, keep in mind that ETCs are use-by, not fly-by. So you can use an ETC in August for a flight as late as next July, even without any further extensions.
Jul 21, 2021, 2:09 pm
#596
Join Date: Nov 2008
Posts: 403
Can you please clarify what you mean by "voluntary" cancellation? Do you mean anyone can get an ETC if they choose not to fly? Or is it only when UA cancels the flight?
Jul 21, 2021, 2:32 pm
#597
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Oct 2001
Location: Austin, TX
Posts: 21,413
Per a strict reading of the policy, this should result in an ETC with the same expiration date as the original one. However, multiple recent reports are that people are getting new ETCs, with 2-year validity, by purchasing a flight with an existing ETC and then canceling it.
Jul 21, 2021, 4:12 pm
#598
Join Date: Oct 2010
Location: UK
Programs: UA Gold
Posts: 66
You'd like to use the funds on the ETCs to book travel, but because there are no UA flights from MAN, you can't, and want to figure out the best way to preserve the value before it expires.
IMO, you're best option is probably to book a ex-US ticket as close to the expiry of the first ETC as possible. Note it does not have to be a domestic flight, could be any flight from the US (or Canada - I think) - that way, there will be no change fees.
- when you cancel the itinerary that you book, the value of it must be booked for the same people - ie, if its you and partner, the value of each ticket needs to stay with that person (though you can split it if you are traveling first without partner)
.
Hope that helps (all these ETC/FFC stuff is clear as mud, right?).
IMO, you're best option is probably to book a ex-US ticket as close to the expiry of the first ETC as possible. Note it does not have to be a domestic flight, could be any flight from the US (or Canada - I think) - that way, there will be no change fees.
- when you cancel the itinerary that you book, the value of it must be booked for the same people - ie, if its you and partner, the value of each ticket needs to stay with that person (though you can split it if you are traveling first without partner)
.
Hope that helps (all these ETC/FFC stuff is clear as mud, right?).
Yes I do want to preserve the value. (I also want to learn how to use multi-quote
)It looks like my best bet is to book a flight originating in the US (Or Canada).
My wife and I are usually on the same PNR except on the rare occasion we use miles an award trip. We would both be travelling together in future - hopefully.
Any use of partner airlines would be to connect to the US.
Again, thanks for the swift response.
I already had a trip booked in March 2020 and haven't had an opportunity since. (We are leisure travellers who fly BF to the US 3 or 4 times a year depending on concert dates and baseball schedules).
Last edited by WineCountryUA; Jul 21, 2021 at 4:24 pm Reason: merging consecutive posts by same member
Jul 23, 2021, 2:04 am
#599
Join Date: Apr 2021
Programs: Miles and more
Posts: 12
I have a booking (through OTA) for some TATL flight which I had to cancel in May. Because the OTA Website wasn't working, I cancelled it directly through United website. Later I wanted to use the flight credits to rebook, but the United website didn't allowed me to do so, because the booking was done via OTA. So I had to call the OTA, it was a long process and I even had to change a fee because they had to call United about the blocked booking. Now I need to cancel again, but want to rebook later. The OTA website directly points me to the hotline, which I want to avoid. Cancelling with United might bring me to the same situation again. Any advice what I can do? Thanks in advance!
Jul 23, 2021, 8:24 am
#600
Moderator: United Airlines
Join Date: Jun 2007
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I have a booking (through OTA) for some TATL flight which I had to cancel in May. Because the OTA Website wasn't working, I cancelled it directly through United website. Later I wanted to use the flight credits to rebook, but the United website didn't allowed me to do so, because the booking was done via OTA. So I had to call the OTA, it was a long process and I even had to change a fee because they had to call United about the blocked booking. Now I need to cancel again, but want to rebook later. The OTA website directly points me to the hotline, which I want to avoid. Cancelling with United might bring me to the same situation again. Any advice what I can do? Thanks in advance!
You can try to get UA to "takeover" the ticket, UA may do this but UA has been pushed by some large agencies to honor the role of the TA. In the past when UA would takeover the ticket it is charged a fee for doing this.