Travel plans often change unexpectedly, and United Airlines understands that. That’s why they offer a flexible flight change policy for most fare types, giving travelers peace of mind when plans shift. Whether you need to adjust your departure time, change destinations, or cancel and rebook, United Airlines makes the process easy and transparent.
In this blog, we break down everything you need to know about the United Airlines Change Flights Policy, including fare rules, fees, timing, and how to make changes online or offline.
✅ Can You Change a United Airlines Flight?
Yes, you can—depending on the type of ticket you purchased. United Airlines has eliminated change fees for most fare categories. However, there are still some restrictions for Basic Economy fares.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- If you booked a Standard Economy, Premium Economy, Business, or First Class ticket, you can change your flight without any change fee, both for domestic and most international routes.
- If you booked a Basic Economy ticket, changes are not allowed after 24 hours unless your flight qualifies for an exception (e.g., schedule change, disruption, or travel waiver).
🕒 When Can You Make Flight Changes?
You can change your flight at any time before departure, subject to fare conditions. United Airlines also offers a 24-hour flexible booking window, allowing you to make changes or cancel your flight for free within 24 hours of booking (as long as the booking was made at least 7 days before departure).
For same-day flight changes, you can switch to another United flight departing on the same day for a fee or free depending on your MileagePlus status.
💸 Are There Any Fees?
- No change fee applies for most domestic and international flights originating in the U.S. if you booked in Economy (non-Basic), Premium Economy, Business, or First Class.
- Basic Economy fares usually can’t be changed. However, if you cancel, you may receive a travel credit.
- Fare differences still apply. If the new flight is more expensive, you’ll need to pay the difference in fare.
- Same-day changes are free for MileagePlus Premier Gold members and above; others may be charged a small fee.
📱 How to Change Your United Airlines Flight
Changing your United Airlines booking is simple. Here’s how to do it:
🔹 Online:
- Visit United Airlines Manage Booking
- Click on “My Trips” and enter your confirmation number and last name.
- Choose the flight you want to change.
- Select a new flight and review any fare difference.
- Complete the payment if necessary and confirm your new itinerary.
🔹 On the United App:
- Open the United app and go to “Trips.”
- Tap “Change Flight.”
- Browse alternate flights and make your selection.
- Follow the instructions to finalize the change.
🔹 At the Airport:
Visit a United counter or self-service kiosk for same-day changes or if you prefer in-person assistance.
🌦️ Weather & Operational Waivers
If your flight is affected by bad weather, technical issues, or operational disruptions, United often issues travel waivers. These allow passengers to rebook their flights without paying change fees or fare differences, especially if you rebook to travel within a specific window.
For example, during recent flight disruptions at Newark Airport, United issued a flexible change policy allowing travelers to adjust their schedules freely. Always check United’s travel advisory page or contact customer service in such situations.
✈️ Final Tips
- Book flexible fares if your travel plans are uncertain.
- Set up flight alerts so you’re notified if your schedule changes.
- If you booked through a third-party agent, you may need to contact them to make any modifications.
- Save your confirmation emails and e-ticket for easy access when managing your booking.
📌 Conclusion
The United Airlines Change Flights Policy is designed to give passengers more control, flexibility, and less stress. With no change fees on most fares, online tools to manage bookings, and supportive rebooking options during disruptions, it’s easier than ever to adjust your travel plans.