United Airlines is making changes to its MileagePlus frequent-flyer program to reward passengers who have a United co-branded credit or debit card. They are also planning to reduce the perks for customers who do not possess their co-branded cards.
United Airlines’ Mileage Plus frequent-flyer program
Passengers flying on United Airlines without a United card will earn fewer miles per dollar spent on a ticket compared to passengers with a card.
United’s primary MileagePlus cardholders will be able to earn up to twice as many miles per dollar spent on a ticket and at higher rates than they currently do. This is higher than the miles earned by a non-cardholder passenger.
A traveller without a United card will only gain three miles per dollar spent on a ticket which is reduced from the current five miles per dollar.
In the near future, general members without the credit card won’t earn any miles when travelling on basic economy tickets. This change will come into effect on April 2.
Perks of cardholders
Whereas, cardholders will earn six miles per dollar spent on a ticket, and more if they bought tickets using their United card. Passengers with the elite MileagePlus status can also earn miles at a higher rate.
The airlines said that the upcoming changes are intended to bring more customers to sign up for United credit cards, and to reward the airlines’ loyal customers.
Andrew Nocella, United’s chief commercial officer said,
“The most rewarding way to fly United is as a MileagePlus member, and the best way to get the most value from the MileagePlus program is to have one of our credit or debit cards. MileagePlus is designed to reward loyalty to United, and our best customers deserve the best benefits in the industry.”
The cardholders can also expect to receive a minimum of 10% discount on United’s flight tickets when booking using points or miles.
After implementing the changes, the airlines is planning to advertise the discounted price which cardholders receive to encourage more flyers to buy their credit or debit card.
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