What To Know
- Economy Plus seats are limited on each flight, making it harder to secure a spot during peak travel periods.
- United Airlines Economy Plus offers enhanced legroom, priority boarding, and other benefits, providing a more comfortable and convenient economy class experience.
- By understanding the benefits, drawbacks, and eligibility criteria, you can make an informed decision about whether Economy Plus is the right choice for your next United Airlines flight.
When planning your next flight, you’ve likely encountered the term “Economy Plus.” But what exactly is United Airlines Economy Plus? This guide will unveil the benefits, drawbacks, and everything you need to know to make an informed decision about this enhanced economy class experience.
Benefits of United Airlines Economy Plus
- Extra Legroom: Economy Plus seats offer up to 6 additional inches of legroom, providing ample space to stretch out and relax.
- Priority Boarding: Enjoy the convenience of boarding the aircraft earlier, ensuring you have plenty of overhead bin space and minimizing wait times.
- Dedicated Check-In Counter: Skip the long lines and check in seamlessly at designated Economy Plus counters.
- Free Premier Drink: Quench your thirst with a complimentary beverage from the Premier Selection.
- Premier In-Flight Entertainment: Stay entertained with a wider selection of movies, TV shows, and audio channels.
Drawbacks of United Airlines Economy Plus
- Limited Availability: Economy Plus seats are limited on each flight, making it harder to secure a spot during peak travel periods.
- Additional Cost: Economy Plus typically costs more than standard economy seats, adding to the overall flight expenses.
- No Extra Amenities: Despite the benefits, Economy Plus does not include other premium amenities like blankets, pillows, or amenity kits.
- Not a True Business Class: Economy Plus is an enhanced economy class, not a business class experience. It lacks the privacy, flatbeds, and other perks associated with business class.
Eligibility for United Airlines Economy Plus
To be eligible for Economy Plus, you must meet one of the following criteria:
- Premier Status: United Premier Gold, Platinum, 1K, and Global Services members automatically receive Economy Plus upgrades.
- MileagePlus Credit Card: Some United MileagePlus credit cards offer Economy Plus upgrades as a benefit.
- MileagePlus Miles: You can redeem MileagePlus miles to upgrade to Economy Plus.
- Cash Upgrade: You can purchase Economy Plus upgrades directly from United Airlines.
How to Book United Airlines Economy Plus
To book Economy Plus, follow these steps:
- Online: Select “Economy Plus” when searching for flights on United’s website.
- Phone: Call United’s reservations hotline and request an Economy Plus upgrade.
- Airport: Check in at a designated Economy Plus counter and inquire about upgrade availability.
Alternatives to United Airlines Economy Plus
If Economy Plus is not available or doesn’t fit your budget, consider these alternatives:
- Standard Economy: While offering less legroom and amenities, standard economy seats are typically the most affordable option.
- Exit Row Seats: These seats have extra legroom, but they may be less comfortable due to the lack of recline.
- Bulkhead Seats: Bulkhead seats have extra legroom, but they may be noisy and lack under-seat storage.
Final Thoughts
United Airlines Economy Plus offers enhanced legroom, priority boarding, and other benefits, providing a more comfortable and convenient economy class experience. However, it comes with additional costs and limited availability. By understanding the benefits, drawbacks, and eligibility criteria, you can make an informed decision about whether Economy Plus is the right choice for your next United Airlines flight.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the cost of Economy Plus?
The cost of Economy Plus varies depending on the flight and availability.
- Can I upgrade to Economy Plus at the gate?
Yes, you can purchase Economy Plus upgrades at the gate if they are available.
- Do I get a free checked bag with Economy Plus?
No, Economy Plus does not include free checked bags.
- Can I use MileagePlus miles to upgrade to Economy Plus?
Yes, you can redeem MileagePlus miles to upgrade to Economy Plus.
- Is Economy Plus worth the cost?
The value of Economy Plus depends on your individual preferences and budget. If you prioritize legroom and convenience, it may be worth the additional cost.
