Cheap United Airlines Flights

United Airlines, one of the major carriers in the U.S., is known for its extensive global network. It was originally founded as Varney Air Lines in 1926 and now operates from key hubs in cities like Chicago, Denver, Houston, and Newark. The airline is a member of the Star Alliance, offering connections to numerous international destinations. United is also recognized for innovative passenger experiences, such as its MileagePlus loyalty program, which provides access to exclusive benefits and rewards for frequent flyers.

United has recently emphasized sustainability and customer service. It is the first U.S. airline to use sustainable aviation fuel in collaboration with its Eco-Skies Alliance. Additionally, its app has won awards for improving traveler convenience. The airline recorded a significant recovery post-pandemic, achieving record revenues and a high customer satisfaction score of 77 in 2023, reflecting its commitment to service excellence.

United Airlines makes checking in easy for all passengers. For flights within the U.S., you can check in online from 24 hours to 45 minutes before your flight. If you're flying internationally, you can check in online from 24 hours to 1 hour before your flight.

The United Airlines mobile app lets you check in and get your boarding pass early. This saves you time when you get to the airport. You can also check in at the curb at most U.S. airports from 30 minutes to 4 hours before your flight. Just remember to bring your photo ID and your flight details.

At the airport, you can use self-service kiosks to check in from 30 minutes to 3 hours before your flight. You'll get a printed boarding pass. Or, you can go to the ticket counter for check-in, also from 30 minutes to 3 hours before your flight.

For those traveling within the U.S. or Canada with fewer than 10 people, and without internet or a mobile device, United offers Voice Check-in. The airline also has an Auto Check-in feature for certain itineraries. This lets you choose this option for the next part of your trip or return flight within the 24-hour check-in window.

The time you need to check in varies. For U.S. domestic flights, it's 30 minutes before your flight. For international flights to/from the U.S., it's 60 minutes before. It's best to arrive at the airport 1 hour before your domestic flight and 2 hours before your international flight.

Hand Luggage

United Airlines allows passengers one carry-on bag and one personal item, such as a purse or laptop bag, at no additional cost. The carry-on must not exceed dimensions of 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 35 x 22 cm), including handles and wheels. Personal items should fit under the seat in front of you, measuring no larger than 9 x 10 x 17 inches (22 x 25 x 43 cm). Basic Economy passengers are only permitted one personal item unless they pay for an upgraded ticket or check a bag.

Checked Baggage

For domestic flights within the U.S., the first checked bag costs $35, and the second bag is $45. On international routes, fees vary depending on the destination and class of service. Economy class passengers typically pay for checked luggage, while Premium Economy, Business, and First-Class passengers receive complimentary baggage allowances. Bags must not exceed 50 lbs (23 kg) for standard tickets, with dimensions limited to 62 linear inches (158 cm).

Special Luggage

United Airlines accommodates special luggage, such as sports equipment or oversized items, subject to additional fees. For example, oversized baggage exceeding 62 inches or weighing up to 70 lbs incurs extra charges, starting at $200 depending on the route. Specialized items like musical instruments may be carried on board if they meet carry-on dimensions or can be booked as seat baggage. For items like wheelchairs or assistive devices, United offers no-cost transportation.

United Airlines offers a variety of seat selection options to cater to passengers' needs and preferences. Standard seat selection is included for most tickets, while premium options, such as "Preferred Seating," allow passengers to choose seats closer to the front of the Economy cabin for faster deboarding. These seats can cost as little as $9 each way, depending on the route and availability.

For added comfort, passengers can upgrade to Economy Plus, which provides extra legroom and is positioned near the front of the Economy cabin. Prices for Economy Plus vary based on the route and can range from $16 to $169 per segment. Travelers can select these upgrades during booking or later through the "Manage Reservations" section of United's website or app.

United Airlines' MileagePlus is its frequent flyer program. It lets members earn and use miles for travel, upgrades, and more. You can get points by flying with United and its Star Alliance partners. You can also earn points with co-branded credit cards and partners in hospitality, banking, and car rentals.

The program has two levels: the standard MileagePlus account and the MileagePlusX tier. Members can manage their accounts and book travel on United's website and app. They can use dynamic pricing and find special fare deals.

United's MileagePlus program has co-branded credit cards through Chase. These cards offer chances to earn and use miles. They have different fees, earning rates, and benefits for all types of frequent flyers.

United Airlines provides a range of food and beverage options tailored to flight duration, cabin class, and destination. In Economy Class on domestic U.S. flights under 500 miles, snacks and beverages are available for purchase, while flights over 1500 miles feature a "Bistro on Board" menu offering fresh meals for purchase during breakfast, lunch, or dinner hours. Complimentary snacks, such as pretzels or Biscoff cookies, are provided on longer domestic flights. For international routes in Economy, complimentary meals are served, including wine and beer, ensuring a more comfortable journey.

Premium cabins offer enhanced dining experiences. On domestic routes of over 800 miles, United First passengers can choose from hot meal options, while shorter flights provide snack bags. Passengers traveling to Hawaii receive a multi-course meal with pre-arrival snacks. On international flights, Polaris Business Class offers gourmet meals, crafted by renowned chefs, with paired wine and dessert services. Special meal options for dietary needs are available across most cabins and can be pre-ordered at least 24 hours before departure.

United Airlines offers a modern in-flight entertainment system designed to cater to diverse passenger preferences. Their "United Private Screening" program provides seatback screens on most aircraft, featuring a wide selection of Hollywood blockbusters, popular TV series, and children’s content. Passengers can also connect their personal devices to stream entertainment via the United app. The content is updated monthly, ensuring variety for frequent travelers. Notable features include curated music playlists, podcasts, and games, creating an engaging experience for all age groups.

Additionally, United is enhancing connectivity with SpaceX's Starlink internet service, offering fast, free Wi-Fi on select flights. Their next-generation entertainment system, developed with Panasonic, includes Bluetooth-enabled seatback screens, allowing passengers to use their wireless headphones seamlessly. This upgrade reflects United's commitment to blending technology with passenger comfort, ensuring an enjoyable journey for both domestic and international travelers.

United Airlines permits small dogs and cats to travel in the cabin, provided they meet specific requirements. Pets must remain in an approved carrier throughout the flight, which must fit under the seat in front of the passenger. The carrier's dimensions should not exceed 18" x 11" x 11" for soft-sided or 17.5" x 12" x 7.5" for hard-sided options. Each pet must be at least 8 weeks old for domestic travel or 4 months for international flights. United charges $125 per one-way trip for pets in the cabin, with an additional $125 fee for layovers exceeding 4 hours domestically or 24 hours internationally. Only one pet carrier is allowed per passenger unless a second seat is purchased for an additional pet.

For pets that cannot fly in the cabin due to size, United offers limited cargo options for active-duty military and diplomatic personnel through its PetSafe program. This service requires advance booking and compliance with specific crate and documentation requirements. Emotional support animals are no longer accepted as pets in the cabin, but service animals trained to assist individuals with disabilities are allowed without fees. Passengers are encouraged to book early as space is limited and to prepare pets with proper vaccinations and carrier acclimation.

United Airlines provides lounge access through its United Club and Polaris Lounges, offering a premium experience for travelers. United Club lounges are accessible via several methods, including membership purchases, premium class tickets (such as United Polaris or international United Business), or Star Alliance Gold status when flying internationally. A one-time pass can also be bought for $59, which grants access to any United Club lounge but does not include guest privileges. Amenities include complimentary snacks, beverages, Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating areas, making it an ideal space for relaxation or work before flights.

Polaris Lounges, on the other hand, cater specifically to United Polaris Business Class passengers on international flights and provide elevated offerings such as pre-flight dining, quiet suites, and spa-like shower facilities. These lounges are exclusive and cannot be accessed with United Club memberships or day passes. Access policies vary depending on the lounge type and the traveler’s ticket class or loyalty status, so passengers should verify eligibility before arriving at the airport.