In the past few years, leading airlines in the U.S. have increasingly depended on their loyalty programs, especially their co-branded credit card offerings, as a vital revenue stream. Even with billions generated annually through these programs, airlines recognize additional growth possibilities. As a result, many of their decisions now focus on enhancing credit card income. For example, the provision of complimentary inflight Wi-Fi seeks to boost loyalty program enrollments, enabling airlines to engage directly with members. Likewise, the introduction of new destinations aims to spark interest in loyalty programs by offering attractive options for redeeming miles.
United Airlines has recently revealed significant modifications to its MileagePlus program, concentrating on motivating customers to obtain United’s credit cards. These modifications favor those who hold a co-branded credit card while putting those without one at a disadvantage. United MileagePlus is overhauling how members accumulate and use miles, with a strong focus on credit card possession. Members in possession of a United MileagePlus credit card will earn increased miles and benefit from improved award redemption deals.
The modifications center around four primary aspects:
1. **Enhanced Miles for Credit Card Holders**: Beginning April 2, 2026, United MileagePlus will change its mileage award framework. Previously, miles were assigned based on elite status, irrespective of credit card ownership. Now, primary cardholders of United MileagePlus credit cards will accumulate more miles on standard fares and additional miles when paying with an eligible credit card.
2. **Limited Mileage Earning on Basic Economy**: As of April 2, 2026, non-elite MileagePlus members must possess a co-branded credit card to accumulate miles on basic economy fares. Without a credit card or elite status, these tickets will yield no miles.
3. **Discounted Awards for Credit Card Holders**: Members of United’s co-branded credit cards will enjoy at least a 10% discount on all United award flights, with Premier elite status holders saving at least 15%. These discounts will be prominently featured on United’s app and website, motivating customers to secure a credit card.
4. **Increased Saver Awards for Credit Card Holders**: United will provide more saver level award seats in Polaris business class specifically for credit card members. This initiative includes a 10-15% discount, making award travel more accessible for cardholders.
These adjustments illustrate a wider industry trend of airlines promoting credit card sign-ups. United’s method, however, is notably more pronounced, penalizing individuals without a co-branded credit card by diminishing their earning capacity. Although this tactic may alienate certain customers, it is poised to motivate loyal brand advocates to apply for a United card. The most notable alteration is the differentiated awarding of miles based on credit card ownership, an approach that has not been previously observed to this degree in the airline sector. These modifications may present obstacles for international travelers or those unable to acquire a United credit card, yet United likely perceives these as minor concerns within the bigger picture.
In summary, the changes to United’s MileagePlus program underscore the significance of credit cards, providing enhanced earning and redemption prospects for cardholders while creating disadvantages for those without. This transition highlights the increasing impact of credit card alliances within the airline industry.