What Is the United Airlines Flight Change Policy
Learn everything about the United Airlines flight change policy, including fees, eligibility, same-day changes, and how to contact customer support at 1-866-284-3014.
Introduction
United Airlines offers flexible options for modifying bookings depending on ticket type, fare rules, and timing. This guide provides a deep dive into United Airlines’ flight change policy, including same-day changes, fees, exceptions, and when to call 1-866-284-3014 for assistance.
United Airlines Flight Change Policy Overview
United Airlines allows passengers to change their flights online, via the mobile app, or by calling customer support. The rules vary depending on the ticket type:
- Basic Economy: Typically non-changeable. Exceptions may apply with specific promotions or flexible fare upgrades.
- Standard Economy / Main Cabin: Changes allowed; fees may apply based on the original ticket rules.
- Flexible / Refundable Tickets: Can usually be changed without penalty.
- Award Tickets (MileagePlus): Can often be modified without fees; taxes may apply.
Important Note: Changes are subject to fare differences. If the new flight costs more than the original, passengers pay the difference. If the new flight costs less, a travel credit may be issued depending on fare rules.
How to Change a United Airlines Flight
- Online via Website
- Visit the United Airlines website
- Go to “My Trips”
- Enter your confirmation number and last name
- Select Change Flight
- Review available flights and select the new one
- Confirm and pay any fare difference
- Mobile App
- Open the United Airlines mobile app
- Navigate to Trips
- Select the trip to modify
- Choose Change Flight and follow the prompts
- Confirm changes and pay any applicable fees
- By Phone
For complex itineraries or urgent changes, call United Airlines customer support at 1-866-284-3014. Representatives can assist with multi-leg flights, international changes, and exceptions not available online.
- Airport Assistance
Gate agents and ticket counters can help passengers with same-day or last-minute flight changes. This option is particularly useful for missed connections or urgent travel modifications.
Same-Day Flight Change Policy
United Airlines offers a same-day flight change option for eligible passengers:
- Change flights within the same day as the original flight
- Origin and destination must remain the same
- Fare difference may apply for higher-priced flights
- MileagePlus Premier members may receive complimentary same-day changes depending on status
Same-day changes are convenient for travelers needing minor schedule adjustments without full rebooking.
Change Fees and Fare Differences
United Airlines has eliminated change fees for most Economy and Premium cabin tickets, except Basic Economy. Key points:
- Basic Economy: Usually non-changeable
- Main Cabin / Standard Economy: No change fees; fare difference may apply
- Refundable / Flexible Tickets: Changes allowed without fees
- Award Tickets: Changes allowed without fees; taxes may apply
Exceptions and Special Considerations
Certain circumstances may allow fee waivers or additional flexibility:
- Weather-related disruptions: No fee for rescheduling affected flights
- International travel restrictions: United may offer flexible options for affected flights
- Medical emergencies: Customer support can review exceptions with documentation
- Travel booked through third parties: Changes may require the original booking platform
Always contact United Airlines customer support at 1-866-284-3014 if you believe you qualify for an exception.
Tips to Quickly Change a Flight
- Check fare rules before attempting changes
- Have your confirmation number and MileagePlus number ready
- Use online or mobile app options for standard changes
- Call 1-866-284-3014 for complex itineraries or urgent needs
- Request a case number when changes are made via phone
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the United Airlines flight change policy?
It allows passengers to change flights based on ticket type. Fees may apply for Basic Economy and fare differences for upgraded flights.
Can I change a Basic Economy ticket?
Usually, Basic Economy tickets are non-changeable. Exceptions may apply with specific fare promotions.
Are there fees for changing flights?
Most Economy, Premium, and Refundable tickets have no change fees. Basic Economy tickets typically do have restrictions.
Can I change an award ticket booked with MileagePlus miles?
Yes, award tickets can usually be modified without fees, although taxes may apply.
How do I make a same-day flight change?
Use the website, mobile app, or contact United Airlines customer support. Same-day changes keep the origin and destination the same.
What if my new flight costs more?
Pay the fare difference when changing to a more expensive flight.
What if my new flight costs less?
A travel credit may be issued depending on fare rules and ticket type.
What is the United Airlines customer support number?
Call 1-866-284-3014 for any questions regarding flight changes, exceptions, or urgent support.
Conclusion
Understanding what the United Airlines flight change policy is helps travelers save time, money, and stress. United Airlines provides flexible options for Main Cabin, Premium, and Award tickets, with exceptions for Basic Economy. Knowing your fare rules, using online tools, and contacting United Airlines customer support at 1-866-284-3014 ensures smooth, hassle-free flight modifications.