Everything You Need To Know About United Airlines Change Flight Policy

What Are United Airlines Flight Change Rules?

Before diving into the steps of changing a flight, it’s important to understand the specific rules associated with your fare type. United Airlines flight change policy varies depending on factors like your ticket type, the time of change, and your flight’s origin and destination. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:

1. No Change Fees on Most Flights: United Airlines has eliminated change fees on most domestic and international flights originating from the U.S., except for Basic Economy tickets. If there is a fare difference between your original and new flights, you will need to pay that amount.

1. Basic Economy Restrictions: Customers with Basic Economy tickets cannot change their flights outside the 24-hour booking window. If you’ve purchased a Basic Economy ticket, consider upgrading if you anticipate needing flexibility.

1. Eligible Routes for Free Changes: If you’re flying within the USA, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands, or traveling between the U.S. and Mexico, the Caribbean, or other international destinations, you can change your flight without incurring a change fee. The only cost you may face is the difference in fare.

1. Same-Day Flight Changes: United Airlines offers same-day flight changes, allowing you to switch to an earlier or later flight on the same day of travel. A fee may apply depending on your fare type, but MileagePlus Premier members might enjoy this service for free.

1. Award Ticket Changes: If you’ve booked your flight using MileagePlus miles, you can change your flight with no change fees. However, if your new flight is more expensive, you’ll need to cover the fare difference. Note that if the new flight is cheaper, the airline typically does not refund the mileage difference.

1. International Flights: For international flights originating outside the U.S., a change fee may apply. The amount varies based on your destination, fare type, and other factors.

1. Refunds and Fare Differences: If the new flight is cheaper than your original one, United Airlines will issue you a travel credit for the difference. This credit can be used for future travel with the airline.

1. Flight Operated by United or United Express: Ensure that your flight is operated by United Airlines or United Express. Codeshare flights operated by other airlines might not be eligible for changes through United’s systems.

The 24-Hour Flexible Booking Policy

One of the most passenger-friendly features offered by United Airlines is its 24-hour flexible booking policy. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation regulations, any flight booked at least seven days before departure can be changed or canceled within 24 hours of booking without a fee. Here’s how it works:

• All Fare Types Are Eligible: Regardless of your fare type, you can change or cancel your booking within 24 hours without incurring a fee.

• No Fees: There are no additional charges for changing your flight within this 24-hour window.

• Fare Differences Apply: If the new flight you select is more expensive, you will need to pay the difference.

• Conversely, if the new flight is cheaper, you’ll receive a travel credit for the difference.

• Basic Economy Inclusions: Even Basic Economy tickets, which are typically non-refundable and non-changeable, can be altered within this window.

Steps to Change Your United Airlines Flight

United Airlines offers several methods to change your flight, whether online, through their mobile app, via phone, or at the airport. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Changing Flights Online via United’s Website

• Step 1: Visit the United Airlines website.

• Step 2: Navigate to the "My Trips" section on the homepage.

• Step 3: Enter your confirmation number and last name, or sign in to your account if you’re already registered.

• Step 4: Find the trip you want to change and click "Edit."

• Step 5: Follow the prompts to select a new flight.

• Step 6: Review the details and confirm your new flight.

• Step 7: Pay any fare difference and complete the process.

2. Changing Flights Using the United Mobile App

• Step 1: Open the United Airlines mobile app and log in.

• Step 2: Navigate to your bookings and select the flight you wish to change.

• Step 3: Follow the prompts to choose a new flight.

• Step 4: Review your selection and confirm.

• Step 5: Pay any fare difference, if applicable, and finalize the change.

3. Changing Flights via Customer Service

• Step 1: Call United Airlines customer service.

• Step 2: Navigate the IVR system to speak to a live agent.

• Step 3: Provide your name, confirmation number, and new flight preferences.

• Step 4: The agent will present you with available options. Choose the one that best fits your needs.

• Step 5: Confirm the changes and provide payment if required.

4. Changing Flights at the Airport

• Step 1: Visit the United Airlines desk at the airport.

• Step 2: Speak with an agent about your flight change request.

• Step 3: Provide your booking details and select a new flight.

• Step 4: The agent will confirm your new flight and issue a boarding pass.

5. Using Airport Kiosks

• You can also use self-service kiosks at the airport to change your flight. Simply follow the on-screen instructions to make your desired changes.

Changing Flights Booked with MileagePlus Miles

If you’ve booked your flight using United Airlines’ MileagePlus miles, changing your flight is just as easy as with a cash ticket. Award tickets can be modified to fit your new schedule without incurring a change fee. However, be aware of the following:

• No Change Fees: United doesn’t charge a fee to change award tickets.
• Fare Differences Apply: You’ll need to pay any difference in miles if the new flight costs more. If it costs less, you won’t receive a refund in miles.

Individual Traveler Flight Changes

If you booked flights for multiple travelers but only need to change one person’s itinerary, United Airlines allows you to do so. When initiating the flight change process, select the individual traveler option. This allows you to modify the flight for just one passenger in the booking. For more complex changes, it’s best to contact United Airlines customer service.

Flight Change Fees and Charges

While United Airlines has eliminated most change fees, there are still circumstances where you might incur a cost:

• Basic Economy: Non-changeable outside the 24-hour booking window.
• International Flights: Depending on your route and fare type, a change fee may apply.
• Same-Day Changes: A fee might be charged unless you are a MileagePlus Premier member.

To get the most accurate information on fees, it’s advisable to contact United Airlines directly or check their website.

Conclusion

Changing your flight with United Airlines is a straightforward process, with various options available to suit your needs. Whether you’re adjusting your travel plans online, via the mobile app, by phone, or at the airport, United provides a flexible and user-friendly approach to managing your itinerary. Always check the specific terms associated with your fare type, and take advantage of United’s 24-hour flexible booking policy to make changes without any hassle. If you have any further questions or need assistance, United Airlines’ customer service team is ready to help.

Changing Flights Booked with MileagePlus Miles