×
+1-800-865-1848
Search

United Airlines Seat Upgrade Policy

Not happy with your assigned seat, or want to enjoy your journey in an upgraded seat? No need to worry. United Airlines offers several seat upgrade options for its passengers. From MileagePlus upgrades to PlusPoints upgrades, the United Airlines seat upgrade policy offers passengers flexible options for upgrading seats.

+1-800-865-1848
United Airlines Seat Upgrade Policy

Let's explore the ins and outs of United seat upgrades, revealing the various options available and the exciting benefits you can reap. If you are planning to make United Airlines reservations, you must know about United Airlines seat selection or upgrade options to enjoy your air travel with a luxurious seat.

What is the United Airlines Seat Upgrade Policy?

When taking a flight to your desired location, choosing your seat is one of the most crucial decisions you can make to guarantee comfort, among many other factors. Many airlines make these things difficult, but when you book your flight with United Airlines, you don't need to worry about that. 

United Airlines seat assignment policy prefers multiple ways that you can simply apply to choose your favorite seat even after booking. The seat upgrade facility helps the passenger to upgrade their previous booking to secure a better seat through miles or dollars.

United Airlines Seat Upgrade: Eligibility

Suppose you want to get the seat upgrade eligibility norms while you reserve tickets with the United seat upgrade. In that case, the most eligible way to get through will be sanctioned below. Here, you will get the details quite prominently to get the details for your upgrade eligibility.

  • According to the United mileage member norms, passengers can upgrade on United Airlines flights, and members can smoothly upgrade the availability and extra upgrade benefits.
  • Passengers also get the option of the waitlist for the upgrade of seat feature that could be achieved using up a United mileage plus award applicable on most tickets.
  • If a passenger requests a mileage upgrade award, it does not apply to any of the segments for the upgrade portion; then, the airline will automatically refund or redeposit your miles and co-pay.
  • The miles will get deducted directly from your account, and you will be getting the eligibility to collect the co-pay for the related transaction quite smoothly.
  • The United Airlines mileage plus upgrade award cannot apply when flying with an award or discounted promotional tickets. Additionally, the tickets containing a basic economy fare and + miles tickets must be upgraded.
  • You even get the ticket standby feature, as the waitlist traveler will get an automatic upgrade addition feature at check-in.

United Airlines Seat Upgrade Types

As there are several options offered to the customers, and if you want to upgrade, you must first go by the availability review, which all are the types of United seat upgrades available. Here are the diverse upgrade possibilities that the airline extends to its valued passengers.

1- MileagePlus upgrade awards: A United Airlines member can request this upgrade using their miles.

2- Complimentary Premier Upgrades: if you have United Premier status, you can receive an instant seat upgrade or be put on a waitlist where space is available on Star Alliance, Select United, and United express-operated flights.

3- PlusPoints Upgrades: Premier Platinum and Premier 1K members can purchase upgrades using earned PlusPoints.

4- Star Alliance upgrade reward: As with Mieageplus upgrade awards, you can utilize your miles to get upgrades on flights operated by the United Star Alliance network.

5-Instant upgrade: instant upgrades are granted at ticketing for certain fare types, enhancing the journey for Premier and 1K members.

Prospects For United Airlines Seat Upgrades

Whether you are a United MileagePlus member, Premier member, or non-member, you can opt for better United Airlines seat assignment during these stages of booking and airplane boarding.

1- During ticket purchase: When you are reserving a flight, you will find the option to see the United upgrade chart and choose a preferred seat. Regardless of your mode of flight booking, you can upgrade your seat during ticket purchase.

2- After ticket purchase: Even after you have purchased a ticket and received a confirmed flight reservation, you can navigate to the manage booking and buy the in-flight upgrade of United seats.

3- At check-in: Whether you opt for an online or offline check-in, you don't need to pay the United Seat Choice fee for an upgrade if you are a premium member. Non-members might have to pay for an upgrade within the check-in window.

4- At the gate: During the last moments before the flight takes off, you can request a United upgrade to  United Airlines seat selection basic economy or another category based on your current membership and fare type.

United Airlines Seat Upgrade: Things To Consider Before Requesting An Upgrade.

If you want a better flight experience, then it's very important to set the right expectations. Here are some things to remember before requesting a United Seat upgrade.

1- It's Not Guaranteed.

If there are not enough spaces for your upgrade, you may be waitlisted. If this is the case and you won't get upgraded, you will get a refund of any miles, taxes, and co-pay you paid when you submitted your upgrade request. Also, the priority is based on the upgrade type, your status, and fare class, whether you have a United credit card, and when you made your United Airlines flight seat selection request for an upgrade.

2- You May Get Less Than What You Ask For. 

It is possible that you won't get an upgrade on everyone. Despite this, if you receive the upgrade on just one segment, United Airlines will still count your MileagePlus upgrade award as used. Therefore, if you are hoping for an upgrade for the complete reservation, you may be disappointed. 

3- You May Be Charged A Co-Pay.

If your original fare was discounted, United Airlines might require a co-pay along with your miles. There is an exception in some regions if you are a premier member.

How To Upgrade United Seats With Miles?

United Airlines allows passengers to upgrade their flight using MileagePlus frequent flyer miles at the time of booking or for an existing reservation. Here is how to upgrade a seat with miles during the booking process:

Method 1: United Upgrade Seat With Miles Through The Website. 

The first medium to request an upgrade of United Airlines seat selection online is to sign in to the MileagePlus account and retrieve the existing ticket. Then, you can proceed with the online procedure via these steps:

  • First, visit the United Airlines official website.
  • Login to your MileagePlus account using your login credentials.
  • Enter your trip details, such as city, date, etc.
  • Select the MileagePlus upgrade awards option from the drop-down menu under the fare difference.
  • After, select your seat and pay the United Seat Choice fee via miles.

Method 2: Upgrade Seat United Airlines Via Customer Service.

The second most renowned method that will help you to request the United Airlines seat assignment upgrade is by using the United customer service number at 1-800-UNITED-1. Also, you may dial +1-800-865-1848 to connect with a third-party service provider for fast assistance. Follow the steps underneath to complete the task:

  • Dial the United Airlines class upgrade phone number.
  • Next, the IVR automated instructions will start.
  • After that, press the required key for United Airlines seat selection for an upgrade.
  • Once you connect with an agent, place the upgrade request on United.

Method 3: United Airlines Seat Upgrade At The Airport

The last option is to upgrade United seat with miles, which is possible at the airport 24 hours before the flight's departure. Also, the request is possible at the check-in counter or at the gate, where you get a designated agent for assistance. Here is how you can do so:

  • Firstly, you need to visit the airport at least 4 hours before the scheduled departure of your flight.
  • Next, you can communicate with a representative at the check-in counter and check if any seat is available in the particular class.
  • After that, show your flight booking details and make the required payment of the United Airlines seat selection fee.

United Airlines Seat Selection: The Possible Ways

Besides upgrading a seat, you must also know how the United flight seat selection process can be done differently. You can make your flight reservation online, over the phone, or at the airport kiosk. So let's look at each:

1- United Airlines Pick Seats Process Through The Website

  • Reach the official United website on your browser.
  • Tap on the "My trips" option.
  • Enter your flight confirmation number and your last name.
  • Choose seat selection from the menu icon.
  • Get a view of the United seat map.
  • Choose your desired seat and pay the United seat choice fee.
  • Get confirmation on the completion of the united seat selection.

2- United Flight Seat Selection Via Customer Care Call.

Call the United Airlines customer service phone number at 1-800-UNITED-1 to get seat selection assistance. To make the seat selection process fast, dial +1-800-865-1848. This is an alternate number of third-party agents who will direct you through United Airlines seat assignments, preferences, and any particular requests you may have. 

3- United Airlines Flight Seat Selection At The Airport.

If you do not select your preferred seat while making a United reservation, you can make a United Airlines pick seats process at the check-in time. However, you might get fewer seats if they are reserved priorly, but selecting a seat at the check-in enables you to avoid the United Airlines seat selection fee.  

Is United Airlines Seat Selection Basic Economy Process the Same As United Economy?

No, they both are significantly different. United Airlines seat selection Basic Economy is unacceptable, and in regular Economy, passengers can choose seats during booking, enjoy a standard carry-on bag allowance, and board with the general group. Furthermore, United Economy fares are often higher but offer more comfort compared to the no-frills restrictions of Basic Economy. 

How Much Does It Charge To Get A United Upgrade With Miles?

United Airlines seat assignment fee for an upgrade is around $125 to $350. You should note that the correct amount of United seat upgrade depends on the destination and fare type. To find the cost of an upgrade with miles and whether it is worthwhile to use miles and a co-pay option, you must log into your mileage plus account before searching for flights.

For more fee information, you can also contact the airline customer service department at 1-800-UNITED-1 or get fast assistance at +1-800-865-1848 to talk with a third-party agent, available 24/7.

How To Talk With The United Live Agent Regarding The United Seat Upgrade Policy?

If you are having difficulties or issues with the United Airlines seat upgrade policy or want to know more about it, then do not worry. Simply dial 1-800-UNITED-1 and talk to a real person at United Airlines. 

However, due to technical problems, if the official number is unreachable, call the third-party agent at +1-800-865-1848 for a rapid response. This alternate helpline number resolves any query or concern about the United Airlines seat selection fee, upgrade procedure, eligibility, etc.

Note: Flying Rules are intended to provide passengers with information regarding airline policies. Therefore, all information presented here is authentic and has been taken from official sources. Nonetheless, as a service provider, we strive to enhance your travel experience, regardless of the airline. Please take note that we at Flying Rules are not liable for the actions of the official airlines and will not be held accountable for them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. When does the United upgrade waitlist Clear?

United Airlines typically clears upgrade waitlists starting 48 hours before departure, based on elite status and fare class. However, specific timing can vary, so check with United for details.

Q2. How to get on the United upgrade list?

To get on the United upgrade list, book an eligible fare class with United Premier status. Add your MileagePlus number to the reservation, and you'll automatically be added to the waitlist.

Q3. How to get free upgrades on United flights?

If you are a premier or a MileagePlus member with United, you can get a free United seat upgrade. With this membership, the upgrade is complimentary: you will not need to pay a fee.

Q4. How to upgrade to first class on United for free?

Securing a United Airlines first class seats is rare but possible with loyalty status or if empty first-class seats are available at the gate.

Q5. How can I see the United seat upgrade list on the app?

To check the upgrade list of United Airlines pick seats, you must sign into your MileagePlus account > Select the advanced search option > Choose the MileagePlus upgrade award option > Request for upgrades > Get the booking itinerary.

Q6. How much does United charge for seat selection?

There is no United Airlines seat selection fee if seats are available. However, if you want to purchase a preferred seat, you must pay $9 for one way.

Q7. How to use United Miles to upgrade seats?

To use a United Airlines upgrade seat with miles, log into your MileagePlus account when booking. Look for the "Upgrade with miles" option and follow the prompts to confirm your upgrade.

Q8. Can I use miles to upgrade on United Airlines?

Yes, you can use MileagePlus miles to upgrade on United Airlines, subject to availability and specific fare classes. Check your eligibility and miles required for upgrades.

Q9. Why is my United reservation not eligible for a seat upgrade?

According to the United Seat assignment policy for an upgrade, it is mandatory that you are a premier member so you can use the seat upgrade feature. Therefore, if you are not a premier member, then you cannot upgrade your United seat. The other reason could be that if you are not allowed, your ticket will be upgraded at the reservation time.

Q10. Why should I upgrade my seat on United Airlines?

Upgrading on United Airlines can offer more comfort, extra legroom, priority boarding, and enhanced in-flight services. It's a worthwhile option for a more enjoyable and convenient travel experience.

Q11. How do I request United Airlines upgrade seat with miles?

To request a United seat upgrade with miles, log into your MileagePlus account when booking. Select the upgrade option and use your miles to pay for the upgrade when prompted.

Q12. Can I upgrade United first class seat for free?

Securing a free United Airlines first class seats upgrade is typically based on loyalty status, fare class, or limited complimentary upgrades. However, it's subject to availability.

Q13. What is the United Basic Economy seat selection fee?

To select your basic economy seat on United, you can pay $5 to $10 within 48 hours of departure because the basic Economy does not include an early seat assignment.

Q14. What happens if you don't select seats on a flight?

If you don't select seats on a flight, then as per United Airlines seat assignment policy, the airline may randomly assign seats to you at check-in. You might end up separated from your travel companions or in less desirable seats.

Q15. What is the official customer support number for United flight seat selection?

Dial 1-800-UNITED-1 To process the United Choose seat request. However, sometimes, the official line faces issues connecting with passengers. In that case, you can dial +1-800-865-1848, which connects you with a third-party agent for quick assistance.

Q16. How do I choose my seat after booking a United flight?

After booking a United flight, choose your seat by logging into your reservation on the airline's website or mobile app. Select available seats based on your preference and any applicable fees of United Choose seats.

Q17. How can I see my seat on a flight of United?

To view your United Airlines flight seat assignment, log in to your booking on the United website or app. There, you can see your assigned seat and make changes if needed.

Q18. When can I select a seat on United Airlines?

Seat selection on United Airlines typically opens during booking. Passengers with elite status or premium cabins often have earlier access, while others can request for United choose seats during and after booking.

Q19. Can I choose a seat on United Basic Economy?

Yes, passenger permits for seat selection on United Basic Economy when they make it in advance. For this, you need to pay the United Basic Economy seat selection fee; however, it depends on the route, seat type, and other factors.

Q20. Is it possible to upgrade United Seat through customer service?

Yes, you can request seat upgrades through United Airlines customer service, subject to availability and specific fare rules. Contact them by phone at their official helpline number at 1-800-UNITED-1, or you can also dial +1-800-865-1848 to get assistance from a third-party agent.

Leave a Reply

Any thoughts or questions? Comment below!

Table of content

    Related Posts Seat Upgrade Policy

    Delta Airlines Seat Upgrade Policy

    Have you booked your ticket with Delta? Are you fed up with airplane seats that are too small and have little legroom? While flying with Delta, [...]

    Read More

    United Airlines Seat Upgrade Policy

    Not happy with your assigned seat, or want to enjoy your journey in an upgraded seat? No need to worry. United Airlines offers several seat upgr [...]

    Read More

    Alaska Airlines Seat Upgrade Policy

    While many passengers use Alaska Airlines, not all of them necessarily follow their intended itinerary. It's more about a change in travel prefe [...]

    Read More
    Phone calling icon