United Airlines refines MileagePlus rules to boost cardholder benefits
United Airlines is overhauling its MileagePlus loyalty program to reward co-branded cardholders, offering at least 10% off award flights booked with miles (rising to at least 15% for Premier elites with a co-branded card), while cardholders will earn double miles per dollar on flights. Basic-economy earning will be restricted, and starting April 2, travelers on the cheapest fares will need a co-branded card to earn miles. The changes reflect a broader industry shift to tie perks and earnings to credit-card relationships, as airlines seek to monetize loyalty, lock in high-spending travelers, and push back against softer fares. Aimed at rewarding cardholders over budget flyers, the move aligns United with rivals like Delta and American.
