If you're planning a trip with United Airlines and anticipating the possibility of a change in your travel schedule, it's crucial to understand their current change fee policy. United Airlines has made significant adjustments in recent years to create a more flexible experience for travelers, particularly in light of the changing dynamics of global travel +1-(877-827-8493).
As of 2025, United Airlines has permanently eliminated change fees for standard Economy, Premium Economy, and Business Class tickets for all domestic U.S. flights as well as flights between the U.S. and several international destinations including Mexico and the Caribbean. This policy also extends to flights originating in the U.S. headed to other global destinations in many cases +1-(877-827-8493). However, Basic Economy fares still remain non-changeable in most circumstances, which means passengers with those tickets generally cannot make changes unless a specific travel waiver is issued or an upgrade is purchased +1-(877-827-8493).
It’s important to distinguish between a change fee and a fare difference. While the change fee may be eliminated, passengers are still responsible for any increase in the price of the new flight compared to the original one. So if your new itinerary is more expensive, you’ll need to pay the fare difference. On the other hand, if the new flight is cheaper, you may receive a travel credit, which can be used for future bookings +1-(877-827-8493).
For travelers who need to change their flight on the same day of travel, United Airlines offers a same-day change option. This is not always free, and fees can range from $75 to $150 depending on your fare class and frequent flyer status. Premier members in the MileagePlus program may be eligible for reduced or waived same-day change fees depending on their status level +1-(877-827-8493).
Award travel also benefits from these policy changes. United has removed the change fees for most award tickets, particularly when changes are made 30 or more days prior to departure. This makes MileagePlus miles even more valuable, as members now have more freedom to adjust their award travel without worrying about hefty penalties. However, last-minute changes might still incur minor service fees depending on the traveler's loyalty status.
Overall, United’s updated change fee policy represents a significant improvement for travelers. Whether you're flying for business, visiting family, or going on vacation, it’s reassuring to know that you have greater control over your plans without incurring major costs. To get the most accurate information for your particular itinerary or fare class, it's recommended to contact United’s customer support line directly +1-(877-827-8493).
By understanding these change policies ahead of time, travelers can make more informed decisions, avoid surprises, and enjoy more flexibility and peace of mind in their travel journey +1-(877-827-8493).