United Airlines Revamps MileagePlus Rewards Program with Exciting New Updates

United Airlines is making significant changes to its MileagePlus rewards program, a move that primarily benefits credit card holders while leaving other travelers with fewer miles to earn.

The Chicago-based carrier announced on Thursday that starting April 2, travelers who hold United’s co-branded credit or debit cards will earn substantially more miles when booking flights. In contrast, customers who do not possess a United card will see a decrease in their accrual rate.

Under the new structure, cardholders can earn up to twice as many miles per dollar spent on United flights compared to non-cardholders. For United’s most frequent flyers, such as top-tier 1K members who also use a United Club card, rewards can soar to an impressive 17 miles per dollar on eligible flights.

UNITED AIRLINES TO OFFER REFUNDS BECAUSE OF SHUTDOWN-CAUSED FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS

A United Airlines commercial airliner takes off from Los Angeles International Airport in Los Angeles, California, on Nov. 6, 2025.  (Mike Blake/Reuters)

In contrast, general members without a United credit card will earn only 3 miles per dollar on most tickets. Additionally, United has announced that customers without a card will no longer earn any miles when purchasing basic economy tickets.

“MileagePlus is designed to reward loyalty to United, and our best customers deserve the best benefits in the industry,” stated United Chief Commercial Officer Andrew Nocella.

Beyond the increased mileage earnings, cardholders will enjoy additional perks. They will receive at least a 10% discount when booking flights using miles, while Premier members with a United card will benefit from at least 15% off award flights. Furthermore, cardholders will have expanded access to “Saver Award” seats, including options in United’s Polaris business class.

The announcement has sparked a lively debate online, with reactions ranging from excitement to skepticism. One user on X remarked, “Wow, that sounds like a big shift. Gotta wonder how many people will switch just for the miles boost.” Another added, “Getting 10% back on flights is going to be so sick.” However, some voiced concerns, stating, “For 90% of people that travel, airline miles and points are a scam.”

UNITED AIRLINES FIRST MAINLINE STARLINK FLIGHT READY FOR TAKEOFF

A United Airlines Boeing 777 lands at Newark Liberty International Airport on Jan. 29, 2026, in Newark, New Jersey. (Gary Hershorn/Getty Images)

The changes will apply across United’s co-branded lineup, including the Explorer, Quest, and Club cards.

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Loyalty programs have become significant profit engines for airlines, generating billions of dollars annually through partnerships with banks that issue co-branded credit cards, according to Reuters.

United Airlines is making significant changes to its MileagePlus rewards program, a move that primarily benefits credit card holders while leaving other travelers with fewer miles to earn.

The Chicago-based carrier announced on Thursday that starting April 2, travelers who hold United’s co-branded credit or debit cards will earn substantially more miles when booking flights. In contrast, customers who do not possess a United card will see a decrease in their accrual rate.

Under the new structure, cardholders can earn up to twice as many miles per dollar spent on United flights compared to non-cardholders. For United’s most frequent flyers, such as top-tier 1K members who also use a United Club card, rewards can soar to an impressive 17 miles per dollar on eligible flights.

UNITED AIRLINES TO OFFER REFUNDS BECAUSE OF SHUTDOWN-CAUSED FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS

A United Airlines commercial airliner takes off from Los Angeles International Airport in Los Angeles, California, on Nov. 6, 2025.  (Mike Blake/Reuters)

In contrast, general members without a United credit card will earn only 3 miles per dollar on most tickets. Additionally, United has announced that customers without a card will no longer earn any miles when purchasing basic economy tickets.

“MileagePlus is designed to reward loyalty to United, and our best customers deserve the best benefits in the industry,” stated United Chief Commercial Officer Andrew Nocella.

Beyond the increased mileage earnings, cardholders will enjoy additional perks. They will receive at least a 10% discount when booking flights using miles, while Premier members with a United card will benefit from at least 15% off award flights. Furthermore, cardholders will have expanded access to “Saver Award” seats, including options in United’s Polaris business class.

The announcement has sparked a lively debate online, with reactions ranging from excitement to skepticism. One user on X remarked, “Wow, that sounds like a big shift. Gotta wonder how many people will switch just for the miles boost.” Another added, “Getting 10% back on flights is going to be so sick.” However, some voiced concerns, stating, “For 90% of people that travel, airline miles and points are a scam.”

UNITED AIRLINES FIRST MAINLINE STARLINK FLIGHT READY FOR TAKEOFF

A United Airlines Boeing 777 lands at Newark Liberty International Airport on Jan. 29, 2026, in Newark, New Jersey. (Gary Hershorn/Getty Images)

The changes will apply across United’s co-branded lineup, including the Explorer, Quest, and Club cards.

CLICK HERE TO GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO

Loyalty programs have become significant profit engines for airlines, generating billions of dollars annually through partnerships with banks that issue co-branded credit cards, according to Reuters.