United Airlines (UA)

United Airlines is a major U.S. carrier headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. It operates one of the largest route networks in the world, serving more than 350 cities across six continents. Founded in 1926, United has played a major role in shaping commercial air travel in the United States and beyond. The airline focuses on providing options across all travel segments, including economy, premium economy, and business class. It is a founding member of the Star Alliance, the world’s largest global airline network.

About United Airlines

United Airlines began as Varney Air Lines, one of the first U.S. mail carriers. In the 1930s, it became a part of United Aircraft and Transport Corporation, which later separated into individual aviation companies. Over time, United expanded its fleet, route network, and market share.

United Airlines

In 2010, United merged with Continental Airlines, combining route networks and boosting international service. Since then, the airline has invested in modern aircraft, digital tools, and enhanced customer experience. Today, passengers can enjoy flexible travel planning through united airlines reservations online, with numerous services and upgrades available at their fingertips.

Why Choose United Airlines?

Wide Network
United connects cities worldwide with nonstop service and convenient schedules.

Modern Fleet
The airline maintains a modern, fuel-efficient fleet that supports long-distance comfort.

Multiple Cabin Choices
Passengers can choose from various fare classes depending on comfort and budget.

Airport Lounge Access
United Club and Polaris Lounge services offer space to relax and work before boarding.

Route Network and Hubs

United serves more than 350 destinations in over 50 countries, offering connections across North America, Europe, Asia, South America, Africa, and Oceania.

U.S. Hubs

United’s operations are anchored by seven major hubs:

  • Chicago O'Hare (ORD) – Corporate headquarters and major domestic and international hub
  • Newark Liberty (EWR)- Main East Coast gateway to Europe
  • Denver International (DEN) - Central hub for connecting U.S. cities
  • San Francisco (SFO) - West Coast base for transpacific flights
  • Los Angeles (LAX) - Growing hub with expanded domestic and international services
  • Washington Dulles (IAD) - East Coast hub with service to Europe and the Middle East
  • Houston Intercontinental (IAH) - Latin America gateway

With so many options, travellers can easily plan trips using united airlines cheap flights and seamless multi-leg connections.

International Presence

United’s international network includes:

  • Europe: London, Frankfurt, Paris, Rome, Zurich
  • Asia: Tokyo, Seoul, Beijing, Singapore, Hong Kong
  • Oceania: Sydney, Auckland
  • South America: São Paulo, Lima, Bogota
  • Caribbean and Mexico: Cancun, San Juan, Mexico City

Through Star Alliance, passengers gain access to over 1,300 airports worldwide.

Route Network and Hubs

Fleet Overview

United operates a diverse fleet tailored to both short- and long-haul operations. Its strategy includes maintaining fuel-efficient aircraft and introducing next-generation jets.

Fleet Overview

Aircraft Types

  • Airbus A319 and A320 – Used for domestic and short international flights
  • Boeing 737 (NG and MAX) – Versatile for domestic and Latin American routes
  • Boeing 757 and 767 – Used for high-density transcontinental and transatlantic service
  • Boeing 777 and 787 Dreamliner – Long-haul international routes

United has over 900 aircraft in active service and is receiving new Airbus A321XLR and Boeing 787 deliveries to support fleet renewal and growth.

Cabin Classes and Seating

United offers a range of cabin options to suit different travel needs. Each cabin includes access to inflight entertainment and Wi-Fi.

United Polaris Business Class

  • Available on long-haul international and premium transcontinental routes
  • Lie-flat seats with direct aisle access
  • Enhanced dining with full-course meals
  • Access to Polaris Lounges at select airports
  • Priority boarding and baggage handling

United Premium Plus

  • Wider seats and more legroom
  • Enhanced meal service and free alcoholic beverages
  • Checked baggage and Premier Access included
  • Power outlets and USB ports at every seat

United Economy

  • Standard legroom and seat pitch
  • Complimentary snacks and soft drinks
  • Free access to personal device entertainment
  • Optional seat upgrades available during booking

Basic Economy

  • Lowest fare with limited flexibility
  • Seat assigned at check-in
  • No full-size carry-on allowed on some routes
  • Same in-flight service as standard Economy

Baggage Policy

United’s baggage policies vary by fare class, elite status, and destination.

Carry-On Bag

  • 1 personal item is included with all fares
  • Standard carry-on is free for all fares except Basic Economy on most domestic flights
  • Carry-on dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches

Checked Baggage

  • First bag: $35 (standard Economy)
  • Second bag: $45
  • Size limit: 62 linear inches
  • Weight limit: 50 lbs (23 kg) for Economy, 70 lbs (32 kg) for premium cabins
  • MileagePlus Premier members receive complimentary checked bags

Overweight and oversized bags incur additional charges. Baggage can be added at any time through united airlines manage booking, offering flexibility for last-minute adjustments.

Baggage Policy

Check-In and Boarding

Check-In Options
  • Online or app check-in opens 24 hours before departure
  • Airport kiosks and counter check-in available at all major airports
  • Check-in closes 45 minutes before domestic and 60 minutes before international flights
Boarding Process

United uses a group-based boarding system. Premium cabins, elite members, and those needing assistance board first, followed by numbered boarding groups based on fare and seat location.

In-Flight Services

United’s onboard services vary by route and cabin class.

Meals and Beverages

  • Complimentary snacks and soft drinks in all cabins
  • Meal service on flights over 800 miles
  • Beer, wine, and spirits available for purchase in Economy; included in Premium cabins

Passengers can pre-select add-ons during united airlines reservations online to customise their onboard experience.

Inflight Entertainment

  • Personal device streaming available on most flights
  • Seat-back screens installed on wide-body and some narrow-body aircraft
  • Access to movies, TV shows, music, and live channels
  • Free messaging on select aircraft via WhatsApp and iMessage

Wi-Fi

  • Wi-Fi available on nearly all aircraft
  • Paid plans offered based on duration or full flight access
  • Streaming not guaranteed on all aircraft

United Lounges

United offers two types of airport lounges:

United Club

  • Over 45 locations across the U.S. and select international airports
  • Amenities include snacks, soft drinks, Wi-Fi, and workspaces
  • Access for:
    • United Club members
    • Business and First Class international travelers
    • Star Alliance Gold members

Polaris Lounge

  • Available at hubs including Chicago, Newark, Houston, and San Francisco
  • Full meals, private seating, showers, and premium bar
  • Access for Polaris Business Class travelers only
United Lounges

Accessibility and Family Travel

United offers travel support for guests with disabilities, children, and seniors.

Disability Assistance
  • Wheelchair service available from curb to gate
  • Braille safety cards and hearing assistance devices
  • Trained service animals permitted with documentation
  • Accessible lavatories on most wide-body aircraft
Traveling with Children
  • Children under 2 can travel on an adult’s lap within the U.S.
  • Car seats allowed in booked seats
  • Diaper-changing tables on most wide-body aircraft
  • Unaccompanied minor service required for ages 5–14 on nonstop U.S. flights
Senior Travel
  • Assistance with check-in, boarding, and baggage
  • Optional wheelchair support
  • Staff available for help at all major airports

Changes, Cancellations, and Refunds

Refund Policy

Refunds are processed based on fare rules:

  • Fully refundable tickets: eligible for cash refund
  • Non-refundable tickets: credit issued for future travel
  • Involuntary refunds available for schedule changes, cancellations, or denied boarding
  • Refunds processed within 7 business days for credit cards, 20 days for cash/check

Ticket Changes

  • Most standard Economy tickets allow changes for a fee or fare difference
  • No change fees for Premium Plus, Business Class, or elite members
  • Same-day changes available for a fee or free for elite members

Sustainability and Innovation

United Airlines has committed to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Strategies include:

  • Investment in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF)
  • Orders for electric and hydrogen-powered aircraft
  • Participation in carbon capture technology
  • Introduction of lighter materials and fuel-saving winglets
  • Recycling and waste reduction programs onboard and at airports

MileagePlus Loyalty Program

United’s MileagePlus program allows members to earn and redeem miles for travel, upgrades, and services.

Loyalty Program

Earning Miles

  • Miles earned based on ticket price
  • Bonuses for elite status and co-branded credit card use
  • Earn miles on hotel bookings, car rentals, and shopping through MileagePlus partners

Redeeming Miles

  • Use for flights, upgrades, baggage, and more
  • No blackout dates on United-operated flights
  • Access to Star Alliance partner flights

Premier Elite Tiers

  • Premier Silver
  • Premier Gold
  • Premier Platinum
  • Premier 1K

Benefits include upgrades, free checked bags, and priority boarding.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


Only a personal item is included. A full-size carry-on is not allowed on most domestic Basic Economy fares.


Changes can be made online. Most Economy fares allow changes for a fee or fare difference.


Snacks and drinks are complimentary. Meals are served on longer flights and available for purchase on others.


Request assistance during booking or by contacting United at least 48 hours before departure.


Yes. Use a United credit card, shop through MileagePlus partners, or book hotels and rentals through the MileagePlus portal.