What To Know
- Depending on the type of fare you purchased and the reason for the change, you may be eligible for a free flight change or you may have to pay a fee.
- The more flexible you are with your travel plans, the easier it will be to find a suitable alternative flight without paying a change fee.
- If you need to change your flight due to an involuntary reason, such as a weather cancellation, you may be eligible for a free change.
Are you wondering if United Airlines allows you to change your flight? The answer is yes, but there are some rules and fees you should be aware of. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the ins and outs of United Airlines’ flight change policy, providing you with all the information you need to make informed decisions about your travel plans.
Understanding United Airlines’ Flight Change Policy
United Airlines offers a flexible flight change policy that allows passengers to modify their itinerary for a variety of reasons, including:
- Date or time changes
- Destination changes
- Flight number changes
- Name corrections
Depending on the type of fare you purchased and the reason for the change, you may be eligible for a free flight change or you may have to pay a fee.
Change Fees and Penalties
The amount you pay to change your United Airlines flight will depend on several factors:
- Fare Type: Economy class fares typically have higher change fees than premium class fares.
- Reason for Change: Voluntary changes (e.g., personal reasons) generally incur higher fees than involuntary changes (e.g., weather cancellations).
- Timing of Change: Changing your flight closer to the departure date usually results in higher fees.
Here is a general overview of United Airlines‘ change fees:
| Fare Type | Voluntary Change Fee | Involuntary Change Fee |
| — | — | — |
| Economy Class | $200-$500 | $0-$150 |
| Premium Economy | $150-$300 | $0-$100 |
| Business Class | $100-$200 | $0-$50 |
| First Class | $0-$100 | $0 |
How to Change Your United Airlines Flight
There are several ways to change your United Airlines flight:
- Online: You can change your flight online through United Airlines’ website or mobile app.
- By Phone: You can call United Airlines’ customer service number at 1-800-UNITED (1-800-864-8331) to make a change.
- At the Airport: You can visit a United Airlines ticket counter at the airport to change your flight.
When changing your flight, you will need to provide your reservation number and the reason for the change. You may also be asked to pay a change fee.
Exceptions to the Flight Change Policy
There are a few exceptions to United Airlines‘ flight change policy:
- Non-refundable Fares: Some fares, such as basic economy fares, are non-refundable and cannot be changed.
- Award Tickets: Award tickets booked using miles or points may have different change rules and fees.
- Group Bookings: Group bookings may have specific change rules and fees that differ from individual bookings.
Tips for Changing Your United Airlines Flight
Here are a few tips for changing your United Airlines flight:
- Be flexible: The more flexible you are with your travel plans, the easier it will be to find a suitable alternative flight without paying a change fee.
- Change your flight online or by phone: Changing your flight online or by phone is typically faster and easier than changing it at the airport.
- Consider involuntary changes: If you need to change your flight due to an involuntary reason, such as a weather cancellation, you may be eligible for a free change.
- Check the fare rules carefully: Before purchasing a ticket, be sure to read the fare rules carefully to understand the change and cancellation policies.
What to Do if Your Flight is Canceled or Delayed
If your United Airlines flight is canceled or delayed, you may be entitled to a refund or compensation. Here are a few things you can do:
- Contact United Airlines: Contact United Airlines’ customer service to report the cancellation or delay and inquire about your options.
- Request a Refund: If your flight is canceled, you are entitled to a full refund for the unused portion of your ticket.
- Request a Rebooking: If your flight is delayed, you may be able to request a rebooking on the next available flight.
- File a Complaint: If you are dissatisfied with the way United Airlines handles your canceled or delayed flight, you can file a complaint with the Department of Transportation.
Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions
Understanding United Airlines’ flight change policy is essential for making informed decisions about your travel plans. By considering the factors outlined in this guide, you can minimize the cost and hassle associated with changing your flight. Whether you need to adjust your travel dates, change your destination, or correct your name, United Airlines’ flexible policy provides you with the options you need to manage your travel arrangements effectively.
FAQs
1. Can I change my United Airlines flight for free?
Yes, you may be eligible for a free flight change if you are changing your flight due to an involuntary reason, such as a weather cancellation. However, voluntary changes typically incur a change fee.
2. How much does it cost to change my United Airlines flight?
The cost of changing your United Airlines flight depends on several factors, including the fare type, the reason for the change, and the timing of the change. Change fees can range from $0 to $500.
3. Can I change my United Airlines flight online?
Yes, you can change your United Airlines flight online through the airline’s website or mobile app.
