United overhauls MileagePlus rewards program with major changes

United overhauls MileagePlus rewards program with major changes

United Overhauls MileagePlus Rewards Program with Major Changes

United Airlines has announced significant updates to its MileagePlus frequent flyer program, marking the most substantial revisions in over a decade. The changes, effective April 2, 2026, aim to prioritize rewards for high-spending customers, particularly holders of United's co-branded credit cards and elite status members, while reducing benefits for non-cardholders and basic economy travelers.

Under the new structure, credit cardholders will earn more miles per dollar spent on United flights compared to non-cardholders. For example, a non-cardholder earning three miles per dollar (down from five previously) will now receive six miles if they use a United card, with additional bonuses for elite status holders. Redemption rates also favor cardholders, who receive at least a 10% discount on award flights, while those with Premier elite status qualify for up to 15% off. Special inventory for discounted award seats, including Polaris business-class cabins, will be reserved exclusively for cardholders.

Basic economy travelers face stricter restrictions: non-cardholders without elite status will no longer earn MileagePlus miles on these fares, aligning United with competitors like Delta and American Airlines. However, elite members and cardholders retain limited earning privileges, maintaining exceptions for high-tier customers.

The overhaul reflects a broader industry trend of airlines shifting from rewarding miles flown to prioritizing customer spending. United's Chief Commercial Officer, Andrew Nocella, emphasized the goal of incentivizing card ownership and loyalty, stating the changes are designed to "reward our most loyal customers."

Corporate travelers will also see differentiated benefits: individuals holding United cards personally will earn more miles than employees using company-issued cards under corporate policies.

These adjustments underscore United's strategy to compete in a crowded market for travel credit cards, where perks like fee waivers and exclusive access to rewards drive customer acquisition. By deepening ties between its loyalty program and credit card offerings, United aims to strengthen customer retention while enhancing the value proposition for its top-tier members.

(https://www.cnbc.com/2026/02/19/united-airlines-frequent-flyer-mileage-plus-program-credit-card.html): CNBC, The Points Guy
(https://thepointsguy.com/news/united-airlines-mileageplus-miles-shakeup/): The Points Guy