United Airlines has significantly modified its flight change policy since the COVID-19 pandemic affected the aviation industry. The airline has decided to permanently waive change fees for various ticket types, involving standard Economy (excluding Basic Economy), Economy Plus, United First, United Business, and United Premium Plus tickets. This waiver applies to travel within the United States, encompassing Alaska, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and Hawaii, also on flights between the United States and Mexico or the Caribbean. Moreover, it extends to international flights departing from the U.S.
United Airlines 24-Hour Flight Change Policy
United Airlines' policy regarding changes to flights within 24 hours mirrors its cancellation policy. You are given a window of up to 24 hours from the initial booking time to update your reservations without paying any fees, until your ticket was bought at least 7 days before departure. This policy is applicable to all ticket types except Basic Economy.
United Airlines Flight Change Fee
United Airlines Flight Change Policy for Basic Economy Tickets
United Airlines' change policy for Basic Economy tickets does not allow modifications, even within the 24-hour window. It is suggested to cancel the ticket within 24 hours (without any charge) and then book a new ticket.
Instead, you can cancel the ticket and prefer receiving a flight credit, which may include a cancellation fee of:
USD 49.50 per one-way domestic flight
USD 99.50 per one-way international flight
United Airlines Flight Change Policy for Non-Refundable Tickets
United Airlines has enhanced its flight change policy, allowing modifications to non-refundable tickets without paying any charges. However, any fare difference must be paid, if applicable.
For same-day changes, United Airlines charges:
USD 75 for general or Silver-tier members.
No charge for Gold, Platinum, or 1K members.
United Airlines Flight Change Policy for Refundable Tickets
United Airlines won't charge any change fee for changes to a refundable ticket. However, if you're changing to a more expensive ticket, you'll need to pay the fare difference. On the other hand, if you're preferring a less expensive option, the fare difference will either be repaid to your original payment method or transformed into a flight credit, conditional on the fare terms of your ticket.
United Airlines Flight Change Policy & Fees for MileagePlus Award Tickets
The change fee for award travel tickets has been discontinued under the following situations:
For redepositing at least 31 days prior departure.
For travel originating in the U.S. within 30 days of departure.
However, if modifications are made to an international award travel ticket not originating in the U.S. within 30 days of departure, the flight change fee is as follows:
USD 125 for General members.
USD 100 for Premier Silver members.
USD 75 for Premier Gold members.
USD 50 for Premier Platinum members.
USD 0 for Premier 1K members.
How to Change MileagePlus Award Tickets
You can prefer to modify your MileagePlus award travel ticket online through the Manage Reservations feature.
How to Change a Flight on United Airlines
You have an option to modify your United Airlines flight, whether it includes changes to the time, date, or destination, via phone or online channels. Online changes are allowed if you booked your ticket directly from United.
To change your flight details online, go with these steps:
Visit United Airlines website.
Locate the top pane of the booking box and click on "My trips."
Access your trip by filling your confirmation number and last name.
Select the itinerary you wish to manage.
Choose the "Change flight" option, then select "Edit" to:
Change your travel date or time.
Update your destination.
Add or remove a flight.
Press"Continue" to select a new flight.
Go ahead with your booking to confirm your updated itinerary. (Please note: Even if the change fee appears waived, any fare difference will apply.)
You will get an email confirming the flight change.
Note: If you wish to cancel your flight and rebook at a later time, visit United Airlines website , click on "My trips," then select "Cancel flight." Confirm the cancellation and opt for a Travel Credit option for future travel.
United Airlines Policy for Missed, Delayed, or Canceled Flights
If your flight is delayed by 1 hour or more or if you miss a connecting flight, United Airlines will spontaneously rebook you on a new flight. You'll receive notification, and all you need to do is check in for the new flight, download your boarding pass, and proceed to board.
Instead, you can choose a flight that suits your preferences by following these steps:
Download the United Airlines app, then select Check-in to book your new flight.
Visit United Airlines website, select Check-in, enter the necessary details to access your trip, and choose a more convenient flight.
Use an airport kiosk to change your flight.
If none of the available flights suit your preferences, you can request a refund.
For additional assistance, you can contact refund providing specialized agents at 888-901-9882.
Are United Travel Options Refundable?
If you request a refund or prefer to cancel your ticket, and if the fare rules of your ticket permit, your Travel Options bundle will be refunded directly. If you have already used part of your Travel Options bundle, the refund will only cover the value of the leftover unused part of your Economy Plus/Premier Access features.
United Airlines Schedule Change Policies
If United Airlines alters your flight's arrival/departure time, frequency, route, or aircraft type, you will receive an email notification if you booked directly through United Airlines. If you booked via a third party like a travel agency or website, your point of purchase will notify you of the schedule change. Alternatively, you can contact your point of purchase or review your flight details on United.com to ascertain the changes.
If the revised flight schedule doesn't suits you:
Contact your travel agent for assistance.
Contact United Airlines for support through phone or online through "My trips" on their website.
United Airlines will make every effort to reduce disruptions to your travel plans. If the updated flight option still does not meet your needs due to a significant change in scheduled arrival/departure times or if you cannot be accommodated in the same cabin class as your original flight, you are eligible to request a full refund.
Frequently Asked Questions on United Airlines Flight Change Policy
Can I change my flight with United Airlines ?
Yes, you can change your United Airlines flight, subject to the terms and conditions of your ticket.
Is there a fee for changing United Airlines flights?
The fees for changing your United Airlines flight depends on various factors like the type of ticket, destination, and time until departure. Some fare types may incur a change fee, while others may allow changes for free.
How can I change my United Airlines flight?
You can change your flight by logging into your United Airlines account online, using the United Airlines mobile app, or by contacting United Airlines reservations directly.
Can I change my flight online?
Yes, you can change your flight online through the United Airlines website or mobile app, provided the fare rules allow for changes online.
What if I booked my United Airlines flight through a third-party website or travel agency?
If you booked your flight through a third-party website or travel agency, you may need to contact them directly to make changes to your booking. However, it's advisable to check with United Airlines as well, as they may have specific procedures for such cases.
Are there any restrictions on the new flight I can choose when changing my United Airlines flight?
The availability of alternative flights may be subject to seat availability, fare rules, and other factors. You may need to pay any fare difference if the new flight is more expensive than your original booking.
What if I need to change my United Airlines flight due to unforeseen circumstances, such as a medical emergency?
United Airlines may offer flexibility in certain cases of unforeseen circumstances. It's recommended to contact United Airlines directly to discuss your situation and explore available options.
Can I cancel my United Airlines flight instead of changing it?
Yes, you can cancel your United Airlines flight, but whether you'll receive a refund or credit depends on the fare rules associated with your ticket. Some fares may be non-refundable, while others may allow for refunds or credits.
Are there any exceptions to the United Airlines flight change policy?
United Airlines may have exceptions or special policies for certain situations, such as military deployment or severe weather disruptions. It's best to check with United Airlines directly or refer to their official website for any specific exceptions.
Where can I find more information about United Airlines' flight change policy?
You can find detailed information about United Airlines' flight change policy on their official website, including specific terms and conditions for different fare types and routes. Additionally, you can contact United Airlines customer service for assistance with any questions or concerns.
+1-866-410-8128