Who gets priority boarding on United?

Who gets priority boarding on United?

Priority boarding on United Airlines is offered to several different groups of passengers. The main groups include United MileagePlus Premier members, United credit card holders, and customers who have purchased certain fare classes.

United MileagePlus Premier members are divided into several tiers, including Premier Silver, Premier Gold, Premier Platinum, and Premier 1K. These members, along with their companions traveling on the same reservation, are eligible for priority boarding. Premier Silver members board in Group 2, while Premier Gold, Premier Platinum, and Premier 1K members board in Group 1.

United credit card holders also receive priority boarding privileges. Cardholders with a United Explorer Card or a United Club Card are allowed to board in Group 2.

Additionally, passengers who have purchased United’s premium fares, such as United Polaris business class, United Premium Plus, and United First Class, are given priority boarding in Group 1. United Polaris business class passengers, in particular, have their own dedicated boarding lane.

Finally, active duty U.S. military personnel traveling in uniform receive priority boarding on United flights.

It’s important to note that these groups are subject to change, and the specific benefits may vary depending on the flight and availability. Passengers are advised to check the United Airlines website or contact the airline directly for the most up-to-date information on priority boarding eligibility.

Frequently Asked Questions about United’s Priority Boarding

1. Can I purchase priority boarding on United?

Yes, passengers who have not met the eligibility criteria for priority boarding can purchase the option to board early. This can be done at the time of booking or at the airport check-in counter.

2. Are families with young children eligible for priority boarding?

While families with young children are not automatically given priority boarding, United does provide assistance by allowing them to board after the first two boarding groups. This gives families extra time to settle in and ensure they are seated together.

3. Can I bring a carry-on bag if I have priority boarding?

Yes, passengers with priority boarding are allowed to bring a carry-on bag in addition to their personal item. However, carry-on bag size restrictions still apply, so it is important to check the dimensions allowed by United Airlines.

4. Do I need to show proof of my MileagePlus Premier status at the gate?

While it is not necessary to show proof of MileagePlus Premier status at the gate, it is advisable to ensure that your MileagePlus number is associated with your reservation. This will help avoid any confusion during the boarding process.

5. Do all United flights offer priority boarding?

Priority boarding is generally offered on all United flights, but it is subject to availability and can vary depending on the aircraft type and specific routing. Passengers should always check their booking or contact United Airlines for confirmation regarding priority boarding availability.

6. Can I still use priority boarding if I have a Basic Economy ticket?

Passengers with Basic Economy tickets are not eligible for priority boarding, as it is one of the fare classes that does not include this benefit. However, they will still be assigned a boarding group and can board with their designated group.

7. What should I do if I have a disability and require extra assistance during boarding?

United Airlines offers special assistance for passengers with disabilities. It is recommended to contact United’s Accessibility Desk prior to travel to arrange for any necessary accommodations and to ensure a smooth boarding process.

8. Are United credit card holders allowed to bring a companion with them for priority boarding?

No, United credit card holders are only allowed to bring themselves for priority boarding. Companions traveling on the same reservation but without a United credit card will board in their assigned group.

9. Do military personnel receive any other benefits besides priority boarding?

Yes, in addition to priority boarding, active duty U.S. military personnel receive other benefits such as free checked baggage allowances, waived fees for itinerary changes, and access to United Club lounges, depending on their military status and fare class.

10. Can I upgrade my boarding group?

United Airlines does not offer the option to upgrade your boarding group. Priority boarding is determined by your eligibility based on membership, fare class, or credit card status.

11. Can I request a specific boarding group if I have a tight connection?

If you have a tight connection and need to deplane quickly, it is recommended to inform a United Airlines staff member at the gate. They may be able to accommodate your request and provide assistance during the boarding process.

12. Is priority boarding available on codeshare flights?

Priority boarding policies on codeshare flights operated by partner airlines may differ from those of United Airlines. It is important to check with the respective airline regarding their boarding procedures and eligibility criteria.