Source: The Points Guy
Summary
United Airlines has made significant changes to its MileagePlus program, effective April 2026. Cardholders will earn more miles and have access to better award deals, while non-cardholders will earn fewer miles. The airline’s rationale is that customers with credit cards are more valuable to United. The changes aim to encourage customers to apply for a United credit card, which will offer benefits such as award pricing discounts and more access to saver award space. Non-cardholders will not have access to these benefits and will earn zero miles on basic economy fares.
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The escape is carefully planned.
United Airlines is pushing customers to apply for credit cards with its new mileage incentives. Cardholders will receive at least 10% off award flights, while non-cardholders will earn fewer miles. The airline is also offering more access to saver award space for cardholders. The changes are designed to encourage customers to carry a United credit card and pursue status. However, non-cardholders will lose ground with these changes. The airline’s tactics evoke memories of Southwest Airlines’ recent changes to its seating policy and credit card benefits.
Travelers are now incentivized to click ‘apply’ for a United credit card, but at what cost?
Author: Evan Null
