Loyalty program
United Airlines MileagePlus: how to earn and redeem
MileagePlus is United Airlines's loyalty program — members earn miles on flights and credit card spend, then redeem them for future travel. The best use of your miles is Star Alliance business class (Lufthansa, ANA, Singapore Airlines). Miles expire after 18 months of account inactivity.
How to earn MileagePlus miles
| Earn type | Rate |
|---|---|
| Base earn on United Airlines flights | 5 miles per dollar on United flights (base rate); varies by fare class |
| Elite member bonus | Elite members earn more — see tier benefits below |
| Co-branded credit card | Fastest way to accumulate miles quickly — earn on everyday purchases |
Elite tiers and benefits
Tiers: Silver → Gold → Platinum → 1K
Key benefits: Upgrade priority, PlusPoints for instant upgrades (Platinum+), free checked bags, bonus miles (25–100%), United Club access (1K)
Best uses for MileagePlus miles
- 1Star Alliance business class (Lufthansa, ANA, Singapore Airlines)
- 2United Polaris business class to Europe/Asia
- 3Short-haul domestic economy saver awards
Values fluctuate with dynamic pricing; these represent strong redemption opportunities rather than guaranteed fixed rates.
Partner airlines
Earn and redeem MileagePlus miles on these partner airlines: Lufthansa, ANA, Singapore Airlines, Air Canada, Swiss. Partner award availability and rates vary — check the MileagePlus award chart before planning a partner redemption.
MileagePlus expiration policy
Miles expire after 18 months of account inactivity.
Tip: Any account activity — a flight, hotel booking through the portal, or credit card purchase — typically resets your expiration clock.
Sign-up bonus & credit card
United Explorer Card: 60,000 miles after $3,000 spend in 3 months (offer varies).
Offers change frequently — always check United Airlines's website or the card issuer for the current sign-up bonus before applying.
Do MileagePlus miles expire?
Miles expire after 18 months of account inactivity. Any qualifying account activity — including flying, hotel bookings through the portal, or credit card purchases — typically resets the inactivity clock.
What is the best use of MileagePlus miles?
Star Alliance business class (Lufthansa, ANA, Singapore Airlines). United Polaris business class to Europe/Asia. Short-haul domestic economy saver awards. Award values fluctuate with dynamic pricing, so these represent strong opportunities rather than guaranteed fixed rates.
How do I earn more MileagePlus miles?
The base rate is: 5 miles per dollar on United flights (base rate); varies by fare class. Elite members earn significantly more — 1K status holders earn the highest bonus. The fastest shortcut is a co-branded credit card: United Explorer Card: 60,000 miles after $3,000 spend in 3 months (offer varies).
Can I use MileagePlus on partner airlines?
Yes — MileagePlus miles can be earned and redeemed on partner airlines including Lufthansa, ANA, Singapore Airlines, Air Canada, Swiss. Award rates on partners vary; check the MileagePlus website for current partner redemption charts.
More United Airlines guides
Program data verified . Earn rates, redemption values, and sign-up bonuses are subject to change — confirm details at United Airlines's official MileagePlus website before booking.