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Home » United Airlines » Did You Hear? United Airlines Is Eliminating Change + Standby Fees
United Airlines

Did You Hear? United Airlines Is Eliminating Change + Standby Fees

Matthew Klint Posted onAugust 30, 2020August 31, 2020 12 Comments

United Airlines Pilot Furloughs

I know I’m a few hours late to the game, so I realize I am joining a full chorus here, but it’s my day off, after all. But just in case you only read Live and Let’s Fly for your travel news, United Airlines announced it was permanently eliminating change and standby fees on all domestic tickets, with the exception of Basic Economy fares. Change fees are also improving on award tickets. That’s big news…and it’s great news.

United Airlines Eliminates Change Fees + Standby Fees On Domestic Travel

Let me briefly sum up the news:

  • United will “permanently” eliminate change fees
    • All cabins of service included; Basic Economy excluded
    • Valid for tickets for travel within the United States (including U.S. territories)
  • United Adds free standby for all travelers
    • Effective January 01, 2020
    • Same-day only
    • Confirmed same-day change for MileagePlus elites remains unchanged
  • No award ticket change fees for travel more than 30 days in advance
    • Includes all tickets, domestic and international

In a very un-Kirby-like video, CEO Scott Kirby also chimes in on the changes:

“Change is inevitable these days – but it’s how we respond to it that matters most. When we hear from customers about where we can improve, getting rid of this fee is often the top request. Following previous tough times, airlines made difficult decisions to survive, sometimes at the expense of customer service. United Airlines won’t be following that same playbook as we come out of this crisis. Instead, we’re taking a completely different approach – and looking at new ways to serve our customers better.”

Umm, who stole Scott Kirby? 😉

I’ll have a lot more to say about this tomorrow, but just wanted to put the news out there now.

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About Author

Matthew Klint

Matthew is an avid traveler who calls Los Angeles home. Each year he travels more than 200,000 miles by air and has visited more than 135 countries. Working both in the aviation industry and as a travel consultant, Matthew has been featured in major media outlets around the world and uses his Live and Let's Fly blog to share the latest news in the airline industry, commentary on frequent flyer programs, and detailed reports of his worldwide travel.

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12 Comments

  1. jim Reply
    August 30, 2020 at 9:20 pm

    50,000 for domestic one way coach and 200,000 miles for asia one way coach award cost most of the time is still a major rip off. so called saver awards almost NEVER exist. so this doesnt help on awards.

  2. James Reply
    August 30, 2020 at 10:02 pm

    For the first time in 2 decades the airlines may have to provide customer service in order to survive.

    • Matthew Klint Reply
      August 30, 2020 at 10:08 pm

      Yep. Great news.

      • Daniel T Nelson Reply
        August 31, 2020 at 2:13 pm

        The airlines have finally gained some humility. We will all benefit from that change of heart. Let’s hope it lasts.

        • emercycrite Reply
          September 2, 2020 at 1:32 am

          Let’s not put up the bunting just yet shall we.

  3. Nate nate Reply
    August 30, 2020 at 10:32 pm

    Seems like it takes away some of the benefits of being elite (but still a good thing).

  4. mari cal Reply
    August 30, 2020 at 11:09 pm

    back to old continental airline policies!,love Continental Airlines,customers and employees happ

  5. Santastico Reply
    August 30, 2020 at 11:19 pm

    I mentioned this on previous posts. We got to a time where customers are king so after many years of airlines and hotels being in control and many times taking advantage of customers now it is time for customers to be in control. Airlines and hotels will do anything to fight for customers.

  6. Andre Reply
    August 31, 2020 at 2:17 am

    Does this apply to certificates United issued instead of refunds?

  7. Manoj Pandey Reply
    August 31, 2020 at 6:11 am

    This is not a benefit for any middle class traveler

    • Matthew Klint Reply
      August 31, 2020 at 8:37 am

      I think in some circumstances it will be.

  8. KK Reply
    October 24, 2020 at 3:22 pm

    UA will more money than the fixed $75 standby fee. The same fare class may be available for an earlier flight, but it may not be available for sale because the fare rules for the exact fare class may require a 21-, 14- or 7-day advance purchase rule. Often, this means a full walk-up Y-, B- or M- fare.

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