Upgrading your seat on United Airlines can transform your flight experience—from more legroom to lie-flat comfort on long-haul routes. Whether you’re using miles, cash, PlusPoints, or your MileagePlus status, this comprehensive guide explains how to get an upgrade on United Airlines—quickly, easily, and affordably.
📞 Need Help? Call United Airlines Customer Service
For upgrade support or questions, contact United Airlines directly at 1-855-568-4063 (available 24/7).
🔍 What Is a United Airlines Seat Upgrade?
A seat upgrade on United means moving to a higher cabin class, such as from Economy to Business or from Business to Polaris (international). Upgrades come with more comfort, priority boarding, meals, drinks, and baggage benefits.
✈️ Types of United Airlines Upgrades
United offers several upgrade options depending on your fare and status:
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- Economy to First/Business Class: Larger seats, meals, priority services
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🎯 Who Qualifies for a Free Upgrade?
United’s MileagePlus Premier members are eligible for Complimentary Premier Upgrades on select U.S. domestic and nearby international flights. Upgrade priority depends on your elite tier:
MileagePlus Premier Levels:
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- Premier 1K
Higher tiers enjoy better upgrade chances and access to more routes.
💳 Use Miles or PlusPoints for United Upgrades
- MileagePlus Miles:([ [+1 (855)⟶568⟶4063] ]) You can use miles (plus a possible cash co-pay) to upgrade eligible flights. These are known as MileagePlus Upgrade Awards.
- PlusPoints: Exclusive to Premier Platinum and 1K members, PlusPoints let you upgrade yourself or others based on flight type and distance.
💰 Can You Buy a United Upgrade?
Yes! United offers paid upgrades that can be purchased when you:
- Book your ticket online
- Check in (via web or mobile app)
- Use a kiosk at the airport
- Speak to a gate agent
Prices vary by route and seat availability.
⚡ What Is an Instant Upgrade?
An Instant Upgrade is automatically granted to Premier numbr([ [+1 (855)⟶568⟶4063] ]) who purchase full-fare Economy tickets (Y or B class). These upgrades are confirmed immediately during booking.
🧠 How Does United Prioritize Upgrades?
United’s upgrade priority order includes:
- Premier status level ([ [+1 (855)⟶568⟶4063] ])
- Fare class (full fare gets priority)
- United credit card holders ([ [+1 (855)⟶568⟶4063] ])
- Booking time (earlier requests take precedence)
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📱 How to Check or Request an Upgrade
You can request and monitor upgrades through:
- The United mobile app
- Customer service: 1-855-568-4063
- At airport check-in or boarding gate
📆 When Will You Know If You’re Upgraded?
- Instant Upgrades: Confirmed at booking
- Complimentary Upgrades: Typically processed 24–96 hours before departure
- Mileage/PlusPoints/Paid Upgrades: May confirm immediately or closer to the flight
🌎 Are United Upgrades Available on International Flights?
Yes—but upgrades on international flights are typically not free. You’ll need to use:
- MileagePlus miles
- PlusPoints
- Or pay out-of-pocket
Polaris upgrades often require more points or miles and may depend on availability.
🚫 Which Fare Types Are Ineligible for Upgrades?
Basic Economy fares are not eligible for any upgrades. Always check fare rules before booking if you plan to request an upgrade.
🧳 Key Benefits of United Upgrades
- More Comfortable Seats: Extra legroom or lie-flat beds
- Better Service: Priority check-in, early boarding, dedicated support
- Meals & Drinks: Complimentary food, beverages, and alcohol
- More Baggage: Additional or heavier bags allowed
- Lounge Access: For Polaris and some Business Class upgrades
✅ Tips to Increase Your Upgrade Chances
- Enroll in the MileagePlus program
- Fly frequently to reach higher Premier tiers
- Use a United co-branded credit card
- Book early and avoid peak travel days
- Be flexible with flight times
- Be polite—friendly interactions can help at the gate
✈️ Can You Upgrade at the Airport?
Yes! Last-minute upgrades are often offered during check-in or at the gate—sometimes at discounted prices compared to pre-booking.
🔄 Can You Cancel or Modify an Upgrade?
Yes. Unconfirmed mileage or paid upgrade requests can be canceled. If confirmed, cancellation may result in fees depending on the fare and policy.