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United Airlines·Star Alliance
How the United frequent flyer program works: how miles are earned, elite tiers, redemption value, expiry rules and which credit cards help.
Key Travel Facts & Insights
United operates MileagePlus. The currency is MileagePlus miles.
Miles earn on ticket price rather than distance — 5 miles per dollar base, scaling with Premier tier. Status runs on Premier Qualifying Points and Premier Qualifying Flights.
Tiers run: Member → Premier Silver → Premier Gold → Premier Platinum → Premier 1K.
Dynamic award pricing on United metal; Star Alliance partner awards are frequently better value for long-haul premium cabins. Excursionist Perk allows a free additional segment within a multi-city award.
MileagePlus miles do not expire.
United Explorer, Quest, Club Infinite and business cards provide a free checked bag, priority boarding and, on higher cards, a full-size carry-on on Basic Economy.
First bag free for United Explorer and higher MileagePlus credit cardholders and one companion, for Premier Silver and above, for active-duty US military, and in Premium Plus, First, Business and Polaris.
MileagePlus miles do not expire.
Member, Premier Silver, Premier Gold, Premier Platinum, Premier 1K. Miles earn on ticket price rather than distance — 5 miles per dollar base, scaling with Premier tier. Status runs on Premier Qualifying Points and Premier Qualifying Flights.
Dynamic award pricing on United metal; Star Alliance partner awards are frequently better value for long-haul premium cabins. Excursionist Perk allows a free additional segment within a multi-city award.
Fare rules, baggage allowances and change policies differ by route and fare brand. Our consultants confirm the exact terms attached to your itinerary before you pay — and handle the change or refund if plans move.