Planning to modify your United Airlines ticket? Whether plans shift due to unexpected events or you need more flexibility, United has updated its Change Flights Policy to offer travelers greater convenience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding their rules, fees, and strategies.
✈️ 1. 24‑Hour Flexible Change
United provides a 24-hour risk-free window: you can change your ticket within 24 hours of booking at no charge, provided travel is at least 7 days away. Skip fees, but expect to pay any fare difference if you select a more expensive flight
🔄 2. No Change Fees on Most Fares
United has permanently eliminated change fees for most Economy, Economy Plus, Premium Plus, Business, and First-class tickets on flights within the U.S., Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Mexico, and the Caribbean—and also on international flights originating in the U.S. Basic Economy remains the most restricted fare
🚫 3. Basic Economy Restrictions
Basic Economy tickets are non-changeable once booked. You must cancel and rebook, incurring a $49.50 domestic or $99.50 international cancellation fee if done after the 24-hour window
⏱️ 4. Same‑Day Confirmed & Standby Changes
- Premier status holders (Gold, Platinum, 1K) enjoy free same-day confirmed changes, even on the day of travel, as long as a seat in the same fare class is available
- General and Silver members may still request same-day changes with a $75 fee, plus any fare difference
- Standby for an earlier flight within 24 hours is free for everyone; fees only apply once you confirm a seat
💵 5. Fees & Fare Differences
Although most tickets are now change-fee free, you still must pay any fare difference if your new flight costs more. Same-day confirmed changes may carry additional fees for non-elite travelers
🌐 6. International & Award Travel
- Award tickets booked with MileagePlus miles are change-fee free for flights originating in the U.S.—only fare differences may apply
- International flights that originate outside the U.S., excluding Mexico and the Caribbean, may still incur change fees based on fare rules
🛠️ 7. How to Change Your Flight
You have multiple convenient options:
- Online via “My Trips”—log in, select “Change flight”, inspect new options, and pay any fare differences.
- United App—offers seamless updates and same-day change options.
- Phone or Airport—contact customer service or visit the ticket counter for assistance, especially for same-day or complex changes
🚨 8. Special Waivers & Disruptions
United is proactive during disruptions. For instance, amid the Newark summer delays, United waived change fees and fare differences for flights affected between April 30 and May 12, 2025, provided travel remained in the same cabin/class
💡 Tips for Travelers
- Book early to benefit from the 24-hour free change window.
- Know your fare class—avoid Basic Economy if you’d like flexibility.
- Use same-day changes strategically—Premier members enjoy the most benefits.
- Monitor disruptions—United often waives fees when delays are their fault.
🔗 Learn More & Get Started
For step-by-step help and official terms, visit the full guide here:
👉 United Airlines Change Flights Policy
United now offers excellent flexibility—but it pays to understand which ticket types qualify, what fees may apply, and how to take advantage of same-day options. With the right knowledge, rescheduling is straightforward and stress-free.
