United Airlines has announced fundamental changes to MileagePlus, and while the United frames them as enhancements, as it always does, the real story is a structural shift in how loyalty is rewarded.
As United seeks to double profits at MileagePlus, this latest move clearly re-frames who United considers its most valuable customers are, with the intended effect of pushing many on the margins to sign up for a United co-branded card.
Below is a comparison of MileagePlus earning rates on United marketed flights now versus April 2, 2026. As a reminder, United offers award miles based on the ticket purchase price, excluding government taxes:
A great solo travel tip spotted this week on Live and Let's Fly.
