United Airlines Reviews: What to Know Before You Fly

There's a good chance you'll find yourself on a United Airlines Reservation soon, if you're planning to take to the skies. It might not be exactly how it works, but United Airlines, one of the world's largest airlines, invokes the age-old adage, “United we fly, divided we stay grounded.”

Having been in operation since 1926, this high-flying behemoth has had plenty of time to smooth out in-flight wrinkles and soar to new heights. Over 1,300 planes now fly to 231 domestic and 125 international destinations in 48 countries. United serves most major cities, so you can fly with them. It has hubs in Washington, San Francisco, Newark, Los Angeles, Houston, Denver, and Chicago.

It doesn't matter if you're jet-setting to a tropical paradise or flying off to seal that business deal; United Airlines has got you covered. So, before you book, here's what you should know about United Airlines.

United Destinations

United has a strong presence in all parts of the world, but especially in Asia Pacific. It operates a comprehensive network of national and international routes. In addition, they are one of the founding members of Star Alliance, one of the world's largest airline alliances.

This airline serves over 319 destinations locally and internationally. Not to mention, it carries regular flight operations from USA to India as well. It is a simple way to book your flights to India and complete your journey without any hassle. Throughout the year, they provide the most affordable flights to India.

The United Airlines fleet and operations

Among United Airlines' nine hubs are Newark, Houston, Washington, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Guam, Denver, and Chicago. Approximately 88,500 employees work from United's Chicago base at the Willis Tower. Its fleet consists of two types of Airbus planes, 97 Airbus A320 and 55 Airbus A319, with seating capacity for 170 passengers or more. As well as Airbus, Boeing is also used on some of its domestic and international routes.

Options for United Ticketing

As United is a major U.S. airline, United's fare types are pretty standard. But with stiff competition from low-cost carriers, United recently introduced Basic Economy - which basically buys you a seat.

It's convenient for those who want to travel light since this reduced and restricted fare doesn't include any standard carry-ons or checked bags.

When flying this class, United's frequent flyer program members will not receive premier qualifying miles toward their elite status.

Below are additional differences in fare types and cabin classes, with inflight amenities covered later in this article:

Fares for Basic Economy (the most restrictive): 

• Boarding with a pre-assigned seat
• Seating for families or groups is not available
• The first checked bag costs an additional $120 (round-trip).
• No upgrades are available
• No refunds or changes allowed

(Standard) Economy: 

• At the time of booking, you can select your seat (if available)
• Other options are available to customize your booking

(Flexible) Economy:

• Cancellation fee applies to refundable tickets
• (If available) Seat selection at time of booking
• Add other options to your booking

The Premium Plus plan:

• Extra legroom and spacious seating
• Drinks and food are complimentary
• Add other options to your booking

In business:

• Extra legroom and spacious seating
• Free food and beverages with enhanced dining

United Airlines offers a variety of cabin classes depending on the route and plane type. We also describe how to upgrade to business or first class.

The economy plus

Adding Economy Plus to your booking will give you extra legroom and will also put you closer to the front of the plane, so you can disembark more quickly.

Economy Plus can be booked as a one-time upgrade or as a subscription when booking a regular economy ticket.

How do I book a small flight with United Airlines?

• It is possible to book United Airlines flights in a variety of ways. You can do so by going to United Airlines' official website and selecting the advanced search option. If you intend to book an unaccompanied minor flight with United Airlines, you must pay a $25 booking service charge by calling United Airlines.
• If the child is unaccompanied, include details on the person dropping him or her off at the airport and picking him up at the destination airport. This information must be provided when the flight is booked.
• In order to ensure that the kid receives adequate care and attention from the airline's flight attendants, United Airlines assures the parents or legal guardians that the kid will be properly placed on board the aircraft. As the case may be, United Airlines will select the seat for the unaccompanied youngster, and the seat assignment will be available 48 hours after the child has registered.
• When adults travel with children on the same trip on separate bookings, United Airlines reservations do not require unaccompanied minor service. To add the required information for each reservation, call United Airlines reservations. Children under the age of 15 are not allowed to check-in online or on mobile devices, so they must check in at the airport with a United Airlines agent if they have a separate reservation.

Here's how to avoid paying excessive fees & travel expenses

Travel rewards cards, such as The Platinum Card® from American Express, typically offer an annual airline credit and can be used to offset fees such as baggage fees.

Most travel expenses can be offset by a $300 travel credit on cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card.

As a statement credit for previous travel purchases (within 90 days), Capital One miles can be redeemed for 1 cent each on the following cards:

United Airlines Baggage Allowance

• Basic Economy Tickets: When traveling in basic economy, you are allowed to carry on luggage and one personal item. The luggage size allowed for personal items is 17 x 10 x 9 inches, while for carry-on luggage is 22 x 14 x 9 inches.
• Additionally, checked luggage and hold luggage, sports equipment, overweight and oversize bags, as well as sports equipment will be subject to fees based on their weight and size.

There are a few items you can bring along as well

If you are traveling with United Airlines, then here are the items that you can carry with yourself: your jacket, umbrella, reading material, and your kid’s diaper bag. It is also okay to bring a camera, medical devices needed to administer, a collapsible wheelchair, etc. There may be a charge for some items you carry in your flight, so you will have to pay that fee.

The United Airlines Service

Wireless Internet Services

There are some flights that currently offer satellite-based Wi-Fi service. If you want to find out if your flight offers Wi-Fi service, you can check the Wi-Fi logo on the side of the aircraft or inquire in-flight.

The entertainment

There are a number of available in-flight entertainment options so that the passengers can enjoy their time on the flight. People appreciate this facility on flights since it keeps them from becoming bored. You can find out more about the entertainment options by looking at the in-flight amenities option on the flight status page.

Baggage Limitations for Carry-On Bags

• In the cabin, you must keep your carry-on baggage close to the seat.
• Do not place the bag near the emergency exit or cabin aisle.
• The contents of your luggage shouldn't contain dangerous items such as knives, scissors, pepper spray, etc.
• When traveling with an infant, you may bring one stroller.

Checked baggage: The person traveling in economy class is allowed to check in two bags (fees may apply) as long as they do not exceed the weight of 50 pounds or 23 kilograms.

Do I have the option of cancelling my flight and getting a refund?
When you know that you cannot fly, you should cancel the flight in writing. The earlier you cancel, the greater the chance the airline will be able to resell your ticket and you will receive a refund of up to 95% of the ticket price.

How do I change my name on an already booked flight?

A booking and ticket can be amended up to 2 hours before flight departure if a mistake has been made. The ticket cannot be transferred.

Amenities on United Airlines

• While flying with United Airlines, you will experience a host of delightful amenities that will make you feel like royalty. United Airlines guarantees comfort and convenience. Their seats are ergonomically designed to support your tired body as you soar through the air.
• United Airlines is not a couch potato. Get ready for a luxurious sleepover with plush blankets, pillows, and extra legroom if you end up in a premium cabin.
• Do not sleep for too long, or you’ll miss out on delicious in-flight dining. United Airlines culinary masterminds craft a constantly evolving menu of delicious dishes that satisfy both your palate and dietary needs. If you prefer in-flight entertainment, United Airlines has you covered.
• You will be amazed at what you can get from your home entertainment system, including movies, TV shows, and music. It's not necessary to share your screen with your neighbor; the show can be enjoyed privately.
• Hundreds of music albums, games, movies, and television shows are available on the seatback screens on some Boeing 737 and 755 flights, while DIRECTV with more than 100 channels is available on some flights. The airline provides Wi-Fi on all its mainline aircraft, including its two-cabin regional aircraft.
• There are different power outlets on each aircraft. Before booking a flight, be sure to check the onboard amenities. International passengers can find a plug on each seat. A crowning achievement—United Airlines’ excellent customer service—must not be overlooked as well. It is their crew members' accommodating and welcoming nature that will cater to your every need with a smile.
• Whether you're traveling on business or for pleasure, United Airlines' amenities will make your flight an unforgettable one.

United Airlines Baggage Policy

• In addition to style and panache, United Airlines adheres to the rules of the air when it comes to luggage. You can bring one carry-on and one checked bag for free. Basic Economy only allows one personal carry-on, which can measure 9′′ x 10′′ x 17′′, while carry-ons are 9′′ x 14′′ x 22′′ (handle and wheels). If we stick to these sizes, we will treat your bags with the utmost care. It is generous for you to start your trip with a carry-on bag allowance.
• Take a stylish carry-on bag through the airport and silently thank United Airlines for its luggage policy as you go. In order to simplify your trip and make it as easy as possible, United Airlines designed its luggage policy to be practical and stylish. So pack your bags and get ready for adventure!

Frequent Flyer Program of United Airlines

• You can lose your MileagePlus points if you don't use them within 18 months if you don't use your MileagePlus credit card. United Airlines offers the MileagePlus program for frequent flyers to fulfill their dreams. You won't know it, but you'll soon be enjoying perks like priority boarding, complimentary upgrades, and access to swanky airport lounges with United Airlines' MileagePlus program. What a way to travel!
• You don't want to miss out! United Airlines has created a program called Eco-Skies that promotes fuel efficiency, recycling, and sustainable aviation biofuels. As you jet off on your next adventure, you can feel good about contributing to a cleaner planet.

Customer satisfaction at its best

• There are mixed reviews on United Airlines' social media platforms and Tripadvisor reviews, which is unusual given that these platforms are often used to complain about poor service.
• As a bonus, their PR team sponsors a number of great causes and shouts about their good deeds on social media, so even if they lack excellent customer service, their philanthropic ways may improve consumer perception.
• One of the most common complaints on United review sites is lost baggage. Additionally, inconsistencies in aircraft age can affect inflight amenities.
• We found a customer complaint that they had experienced seat-back entertainment on one international flight but not another. That's going to disappoint travelers.
• Despite United's focus on personal device entertainment, this requires that customers own a smartphone or tablet.

Partnering with charities

In addition to supporting numerous charities throughout their main hub locations and worldwide, United Airlines strives to be a more sustainable airline by supporting environmental charities and operations such as Clean the World and Conservation International.

The United States also supports many youth projects, including Youth Guidance, aimed at inspiring future leaders.