Is United A Good Airline?

With so many carriers to choose from, it can be hard to narrow down which one is a good choice. We compared United Airlines to other domestic carriers.

Based on various factors such as its loyalty program, in-flight experience, and overall boarding and reliability, United was the best airline loyalty program for 2021.

In terms of on-time performance and customer service, United was the worst performer, while Alaska Airlines and JetBlue were the best.



What is United Airlines like?

Your experience with United Airlines will vary depending on a number of factors, such as your flight's crew and passenger load.

Making reservations

United's online reservation system is relatively easy to use, and it can be done in various ways, such as by calling its reservation line or using its app. However, in the U.S. and Canada, they charge a $25 service fee when booking via phone.

Check-in

Online check-in for eligible flyers is available 24 hours before your flight departure.

Boarding

Once you're ready to travel, United will place you in one of five boarding groups depending on your status and the level of your membership in Star Alliance or United. Some groups are also available for families with a young child or older passengers.

Related: How to Upgrade to First Class on United

In-flight experience

Depending on the flight and cabin you're flying in, your in-flight experience can vary significantly. For instance, if you're in Polaris, you'll probably have direct aisle access and a large screen to watch movies and TV shows.

In-flight entertainment is typically only available on devices with built-in features, such as tablets and cell phones.

Loyalty program

Despite being one of the better-known domestic airlines, United's loyalty program isn't stellar. You can still use your miles for great partner redemptions.

Other factors to consider

Safety ratings

According to an analysis conducted by AirlineRatings.com in 2021, United was among the top 20 airlines in the world for safety and innovation.

Reliability

United Airlines was the worst carrier for lost baggage in the US in 2020.

Out of the nine US airlines, United was regarded as the most on-time. It arrived on time 78% of the time.



Customer satisfaction

United was also the top-ranked carrier in terms of customer satisfaction in the study.

According to a study carried out in 2021, United was the sixth-best airline in North America. The study evaluated eight factors related to customer satisfaction.

Unique perks of flying United

For members of United's MileagePlus program, the company occasionally offers the opportunity to earn additional miles. For instance, if you take four flights in a set period of time, you could get an additional 21,000 miles.

One of the great perks of flying United is that it is a part of the Star Alliance, which includes other well-known airlines such as Air New Zealand and Lufthansa.

Related: United Economy Plus (Is It Worth Upgrading?)

8 Things to Know Before You Fly

Whether you’re planning on visiting relatives or traveling to an exotic location, United Airlines has a variety of flight options.

1. Where Does United Fly?

United carries approximately 750 aircraft under the United Airlines and United Express brands.

Through its partnership with other airlines, United can reach more than 560 cities in more than 60 countries.

2. What Are United’s Fare Classes?

United offers various domestic fares, such as Business Class, First Class, and Premium Plus.

On some flights, you can also buy snacks and meal boxes from the airline's Choice Menu.

3. How Much Legroom Do United’s Seats Offer?

On United's Boeing 737 aircraft, the company's Economy seats have a pitch of about 30 inches. They can also be configured with two other seating options.

If you're looking for extra legroom, then United's Economy Plus is for you. It provides 6 inches of additional space.

The airline also offers a slightly different type of seat called the Preferred Position. It's located in the first few rows of economy.

4. What Is United’s Baggage Policy?

All items are required to be brought on board before they're charged. Only one carry-on bag is allowed to be brought on board.

According to the airline, the maximum size of a checked bag depends on the flight's location and the number of passengers.

Effective March 6, 2019, United will charge a $25 fee for each bag on select flights. These changes will affect customers who booked their tickets before February 21.

United's frequent flier program, MileagePlus, and its members will still receive free checked luggage.

5. What Is United’s Frequent Flyer Program?

United's MileagePlus is a loyalty program that gives members the opportunity to earn points when they fly with the company.

In August 2019, the miles that you accumulated through the program will no longer expire. You can also earn bonus miles and other perks through the program.

6. Does United Offer Subscriptions?

Many of the onboard facilities are available as memberships through United. United's one-year subscriptions are listed here, along with their beginning pricing.

  • $499 for Economy Plus
  • Baggage costs $349. (2 bags for you and up to eight companions on the same reservation)
  • $49 or 7,500 miles for in-flight Wi-Fi (many streaming services not included)
  • $650 or 85,000 miles if you join the United Club.

7. How Do Customers View United’s Service?

United Airlines came in eighth place out of the 10 biggest US carriers in terms of customer satisfaction.

8. How Can You Save Money on United Airlines?

If you're a veteran or active member of the National Guard, United has something for you. Through its Veterans Advantage program, the airline can give you 5% off your purchase.

To avoid paying for baggage fees, sign up for a Chase Explorer Card. It's also free to carry a bag with you.


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