United Airlines offers several options for upgrades in order to help customers get the comfort they deserve while flying with United. If you want more leg room, an all-flat seat aboard Polaris business class, or a seat that’s not in between two others, consider exploring the various upgrade options United provides. Our comprehensive guide outlines the various upgrade options available, who is eligible for upgrades, how to request one, and explains the costs and priority for obtaining upgrades. If you want to speak with United Live Representatives, you can contact them at 1-800-864-8331.

Understanding United Airlines Seat Upgrade

You have the option to upgrade your seat on the majority of flights operated by United and United Express. The method and timing of this change depend on your Premier® status level.

1. For Non-members

You have the option to purchase an Economy Plus seat or enhance your cabin during the booking process. If you hold a Basic Economy ticket, the only time you can buy an Economy Plus seat is at check-in.

2. For Members

You are allowed to modify or upgrade your seat at any time until boarding, and occasionally while on board. If there are no available seat assignments, please check again as your departure time approaches or consult a representative at the gate. To change seats while on board, you need to request assistance from a flight attendant.

Types of Seat Upgrades Offered by United Airlines

There are several types of upgrades available through United Airlines with various benefits and features depending on your travel preferences.

There are 3 different upgrade categories:

1. Economy Plus

   upgrades allow consumers to experience additional comfort with more legroom and the option of placing themselves in a better location in the cabin.

A few advantages of this type of upgrade are:

– Up to 6 inches of extra legroom

– Nearer to the front of the economy cabin

– You can purchase this type of upgrade during the reservation process or at a later date

– Premier members may be able to get free access to Economy Plus depending on their status level.

2. United Premium Plus

   upgrades allow consumers to travel in a comfortable middle ground between the Economy Class and Business Class on select International Flights.

Some benefits of a Premium Plus upgrade include:

– Wider seats

– More legroom and greater reclining ability

– Food and other amenities are offered at a greater level of service

– You can purchase upfront with cash, or use miles under the United Airlines seat upgrade policy for your eligibility for this upgrade.

3. United Polaris® Business Class,

   United has a signature long-haul international business class offering — with new features including flat bed seating; high-quality gourmet food and drink service; access to exclusive airport lounges; and high-end amenities. 

Benefits: 

Full flat bed seating

Saks Fifth Avenue bedding products

Enhanced entertainment options/services

Access to United’s Polaris® Lounge at select airports

Upgrade Options: 

Elite members use PlusPoints® to upgrade.

Elite members may utilize MileagePlus Upgrade Awards (i.e., redeemable miles, plus co-payment) according to eligible fare rules.

Immediate upgrades may be available at the time of booking if there are available seats in Polaris Business Class.

How to Upgrade Your Seat on United Airlines

Below are the main ways to obtain an upgrade option when purchasing your flight:

1. During the Booking Process

• When booking your flight online at United.com or via the United App, you can select your flight and fare class. 
• During the seat selection, you might notice any available “Economy Plus” or upgrade options.

If you wish to use PlusPoints or miles for an upgrade, please verify if those options are available during your flight booking.

2. After Booking (but before your Flight)

You can also discover the upgrade option on your flight itinerary and reserve your seat through either the United App or on united.com by using the “My Trips” feature, selecting your flight, and then choosing the “Upgrade” or “Change your seat” options from the provided list.

If you intend to use PlusPoints or miles for your upgrade, you can find details on how many are required, as well as any co-pay amount, when selecting this option.

3. During the Check-in Process:

When you check in for your flight with United Airlines online (within 24 hours prior to departure), you might observe some new upgrade options that United is providing. If these upgrades are available for your flight, you can choose to purchase and confirm your acceptance of them right away.

4. At the Airport:

Once at the airport, you have two ways to communicate directly with United Airlines – either through an Airport Kiosk or by speaking with a trained agent at a check-in counter or gate. This is your opportunity to inquire about possible Paid Upgrades to First Class, Standby Upgrades, or to follow up on your Waitlisted Requests.

Benefits of the United Seat Upgradation Policy

Travelers Looking for Comfort and Convenience Can Benefit from United Airlines’ Seat Upgrade Policy, Which Provides Several Valuable Advantages. Below are the benefits of United Airlines’ Seat Upgrade Policy:

• Complimentary Premier Upgrades for Elite Members: Premier Members (Silver or Higher) Enjoy Complimentary Premier Upgrades on Most Domestic and Short-Haul International Flights Without Any Extra Costs.

• Earlier Upgrade Confirmation: Top Tier Members Can Have Their Upgrades Cleared Up to 96 Hours Before Departure, Providing Both Peace of Mind and Luxury Prior to Boarding the Flight.

• Priority Benefits Linked to an Upgraded Seat: An Upgraded Seat Includes Premier Access (Priority Check-In, Priority Security), Group 1 Boarding, and an Increased Baggage Allowance of 70Lbs/32Kg.

• Economy Plus Access at No Cost: Gold Elite Members and Higher Can Reserve Extra Leg Room Seats for themselves and a Companion Without Any Additional Charge at the Time of Booking.

Concluding Thoughts

There are multiple options available for passengers seeking upgrades on United Airlines. These include straightforward paid upgrades as well as more intricate methods like PlusPoints and elite benefits associated with being a member of the United Airlines frequent flyer program. Gaining a clear understanding of United Airlines upgrades can help you identify the most suitable upgrade option based on your travel preferences, your loyalty to United Airlines, and the number of miles or cash you have at your disposal for the upgrade. You can fully enjoy the enhanced experience, whether you are flying internationally on a long-haul flight, on a domestic business trip, or simply wish to enjoy a more comfortable journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to upgrade my seat on United Airlines?

Members with premium status may qualify for one occasional premium upgrade on select flights, depending on availability, for both United and United Express.

How do I upgrade my seat on United Airlines after I have made a booking?

Indeed, once you have booked a flight with United Airlines, you can upgrade your seat via their website or mobile app. Just select “My Trips” and locate the flight you want to upgrade.

How do I upgrade my seat via customer service?

Yes, you can upgrade your seat via live representatives of United by calling at 1-800-864-8331.