Significant Changes to United Airlines’ MileagePlus: Is a Credit Card Now Essential?
United Airlines has recently unveiled a major revamp of its MileagePlus frequent flyer program, the most significant in over a decade. This overhaul has led to a stark contrast between travelers who possess the airline’s co-branded credit card and those who do not. These changes, announced on February 19, 2026, will be effective from April 2, 2026.
With the new structure, MileagePlus credit card holders stand to gain up to twice as many miles per dollar spent on United flights compared to non-cardholders. Furthermore, cardholders will be entitled to automatic discounts of at least 10% on all award ticket redemptions. This discount can rise to 15% for those who also hold Premier elite status.
The changes signal a strategic shift towards rewarding the airline’s highest-spending customers. Non-cardholders will witness their base earning rate drop from five miles per dollar to a mere three miles per dollar. On the other hand, cardholders can earn six miles or more, contingent on their elite status and whether they use their United card to purchase tickets.
In a move that has sparked controversy, travelers booking Basic Economy fares without a United credit card or elite status will no longer earn any miles at all starting April 2. This change makes United’s cheapest fare class even more restrictive for budget-conscious travelers.
The airline is also broadening access to discounted Polaris business class Saver Awards for cardholders. Some transatlantic routes are now available for as low as 68,000 miles for Premier members with a United card, compared to 80,000 miles for standard members. Industry analysts have noted that this move mirrors similar strategies by Delta Air Lines and underscores the growing significance of credit card partnerships as a major revenue driver for airlines.
Source: CNBC