How To Get Upgraded At United Airlines?

Does United Airlines Upgrade Seats For Free?

Yes, United Airlines offers MileagePlus Premier members complimentary upgrades. To avail of the enhancements, passengers must consider their loyalty status, fare class, and the specific route. As availability may vary, check when booking or closer to the departure time for possible upgrades. Upgrading your flight with this airline can enhance your travel journey. 

Types of Upgrades Award

The airline offers different types of upgrades. Additionally, each upgrade has its own terms and conditions that you should know before taking advantage of them: 

1. MileagePlus Upgrade Awards: Upgrade your seat with miles on most paid tickets for flights operated by the airline. You can also use miles to upgrade other travelers. In certain conditions, you must pay some of the travel costs on some fares if you don't have MileagePlus Premier status.

2. Complimentary Premier Upgrades: Premier Upgrades are free upgrades you qualify for if you are a Premier member flying on certain flights, as long as space is available. United Cardholders may also be able to apply these upgrades for flights booked with miles. You may also get a complimentary upgrade for another guest traveling with you on certain flights.

3. PlusPoints: PlusPoints are upgrade points provided exclusively to selected members of United Airlines, i.e. Premier Platinum and Premier 1K members. Members can redeem the points for an upgrade of their seat on United flights and partner airlines. Another noteworthy aspect of these points is the ability to upgrade someone else's seat—the most liberal options regarding sharing upgrade privileges among friends and family.

4. Star Alliance Upgrade Awards: Miles can be used to upgrade your seat on particular Star Alliance member airlines. After you have bought your ticket, you can request a United Airlines Seat Upgrade. Up to four passengers on the same trip can have their Star Alliance Upgrade Awards sponsored by you using miles.

What is the process for requesting an upgrade?

You can request a seat upgrade through the website, by phone, or at the airport. Use the process outlined below to upgrade your seat and save time. 

Website

• Start by logging into your account with MileagePlus.

• Go to "My Trips" and choose the flight you want to upgrade.

• Tap on the ‘Upgrade Cabin’ section. 

• You will have the choice to upgrade using either miles or cash.

• If you are using miles, select the "Miles" option and review the upgrade choices available.

• Use the prompts to submit your request for an upgrade. 

Call

• You can request a seat upgrade through a call.

• Pick the customer service number on the airline’s official website. 

• Dial the number based on your location. 

• Speak with the representative regarding your upgrade.

• Make sure you provide booking details to the representative.

• Wait for the process, and receive your upgrade confirmation via email. 

Airport

• Visit your nearby airport.

• Find the customer service desk at United Airlines.

• Start communication with the presented customer service agent. 

• Provide your booking details to proceed with the upgrade process. 

• After completing the upgrade process, you will be able to fly.

Conclusion

There are several opportunities for seat upgrades offered by United Airlines; especially the MileagePlus Premier members can avail themselves of complimentary upgrades and various benefits.   Always check for upgrade availability by your loyalty status and fare class; you never know when an upgraded travel experience will come your way!