What To Know
- If United Airlines cancels or makes a significant change to your flight, you will not be charged a change fee.
- In the event of the death of a family member, you may be eligible for a fee waiver.
- Yes, you can change your United Airlines flight on the day of departure, but the change fee will be higher.
In the ever-evolving landscape of air travel, flexibility and convenience are paramount. One of the most common concerns for travelers is the potential for unexpected changes to their itinerary. In this regard, the question of whether United Airlines has no change fees has become a pressing one. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of United Airlines’ change fee policy, providing clear and concise answers to all your queries.
Understanding United Airlines’ Change Fee Policy
United Airlines has a flexible change fee policy that varies depending on the fare class purchased. The following are the key points to keep in mind:
- Basic Economy: Change fees apply and are non-refundable.
- Economy: Change fees may apply, depending on the fare purchased.
- Premium Economy: Change fees may apply, depending on the fare purchased.
- Business: Change fees may apply, depending on the fare purchased.
- First Class: No change fees apply.
Exceptions to the Change Fee Policy
There are certain exceptions to United Airlines‘ change fee policy, including:
- Involuntary Changes: If United Airlines cancels or makes a significant change to your flight, you will not be charged a change fee.
- Military Personnel: Active-duty military personnel and their families are exempt from change fees.
- Medical Emergencies: If you or a family member experiences a medical emergency, you may be eligible for a fee waiver.
- Bereavement: In the event of the death of a family member, you may be eligible for a fee waiver.
How to Avoid Change Fees
To avoid paying change fees, consider the following strategies:
- Purchase a Flexible Fare: Opt for a fare class that includes free changes or a lower change fee.
- Use MileagePlus Miles: Redeem your MileagePlus miles to book flights with no change fees.
- Join the United Premier Program: Premier members receive a reduced change fee or may be eligible for free changes.
- Consider Trip Protection: Purchase trip protection insurance to cover unexpected changes and avoid paying change fees.
How to Pay Change Fees
If you are required to pay a change fee, you can do so through the following methods:
- Online: Visit United Airlines’ website and follow the prompts to pay the change fee.
- Phone: Call United Airlines reservations and provide your payment information.
- Airport: Pay the change fee at the airport ticket counter.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does United Airlines have no change fees on all flights?
No, change fees apply to most fare classes except for First Class.
2. How much is the change fee on United Airlines?
Change fees vary depending on the fare class purchased, but typically range from $200 to $500.
3. Can I cancel my United Airlines flight for free?
Yes, you can cancel your United Airlines flight within 24 hours of booking without paying a cancellation fee.
4. How do I get a refund for a change fee?
Refunds for change fees are not typically available unless the change is involuntary.
5. Can I change my United Airlines flight online?
Yes, you can change your United Airlines flight online through the airline’s website.
6. What is United Airlines‘ policy on same-day changes?
Same-day changes may be subject to a higher change fee.
7. Can I change my United Airlines flight on the day of departure?
Yes, you can change your United Airlines flight on the day of departure, but the change fee will be higher.
8. Can I use MileagePlus miles to pay for a change fee?
No, MileagePlus miles cannot be used to pay for change fees.
9. Do Premier members get free changes on United Airlines?
Premier members receive a reduced change fee or may be eligible for free changes, depending on their status level.
10. What is the best way to avoid paying change fees on United Airlines?
The best way to avoid paying change fees is to purchase a flexible fare, use MileagePlus miles, join the United Premier Program, or consider trip protection.
