Award travel updates

Introducing a broader range of award prices

• Some award prices will be lower than what’s currently published in our chart. You may have already seen these prices, and you’ll be able to get them immediately.
• Other award prices may be higher than what you see today, especially if you’re traveling at a popular time. These prices will take effect immediately for travel November 15 or after.
• Starting November 15, we’re removing close-in fees, so you won’t be charged the extra fee of up to $75 for booking last-minute award travel.
• A flexible award travel calendar is available on united.com or in our app.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is changing?

  For travel on or after November 15, we will no longer publish an award chart listing the set amount of miles needed for award flights. Award pricing will now fluctuate based on a variety of factors, including demand. Additionally, starting November 15, we will no longer charge a fee of up to $75 for award flights booked within 21 days of departure.

• When will these updates take effect?

  The award pricing changes apply immediately to flights on or after November 15, 2019. Until then, award prices will be the same as or lower than what’s currently published in our award chart.

• How many miles will I need for award travel after November 15?

  Award prices will now fluctuate based on a variety of factors. Some air awards will be available for less than what’s listed in our chart, which you may have already noticed. After November 15, award prices may also be higher, especially if you’re traveling at popular times. Use our flexible award calendar to get a monthly view of the award prices for a specific destination.

• Why are you making these changes?

  Increasing award prices for the most in-demand flights allows us to offer better returns for our shareholders. If your award travel is flexible, these updates will help you make the most of your miles.

• How will these updates affect award travel availability?

  United MileagePlus members with Premier® status and qualifying United Chase Cardmembers can continue to book award travel without blackout dates. For other members, most award flights that are available today will continue to be available after these updates take effect.

• Do the lowest-priced awards have any extra flight restrictions?

  No. Our lowest priced awards do not have any added restrictions; the fare rules for all award travel apply.

• How can I find the lowest priced award for my travel?

  The award calendar on united.com or in our app will continue to show the lowest available price for your destination.

• Will I earn miles on my flight if I book an award?

  No. As with current award bookings, award travel in the future will not be eligible to earn miles with MileagePlus or any other loyalty program.

• What if I need to change my existing award?

  If you need to change your award ticket, you will be issued a new ticket for which new pricing and additional fees may apply.

• What if I purchase a close-in award before November 15

  The close-in booking fee will still apply to all tickets booked within 21 days of departure prior to November 15, 2019. We will not refund fees paid prior to November 15, even if travel occurs on or after November 15.