United Airlines Raises Spending Requirements for Frequent Flyer Status

United Airlines has announced significant changes to its MileagePlus frequent flyer program for 2025, increasing the spending requirements to earn elite status. The airline is raising the thresholds for earning Premier status by an average of 20-25%, making it more challenging for flyers to qualify. This move comes after United did not raise the requirements since 2019, despite the elite ranks swelling in recent years. The increase in requirements may lead to a decrease in the number of frequent flyers who qualify for elite status, as some may find the new thresholds too high.


The new requirements for Premier Qualifying Points (PQPs) and Premier Qualifying Flights (PQFs) will be as follows:

* Premier Silver: 7,000 PQPs or 30 PQFs (up from 6,000 PQPs or 25 PQFs)
* Premier Gold: 14,000 PQPs or 60 PQFs (up from 12,000 PQPs or 50 PQFs)
* Premier Platinum: 24,000 PQPs or 100 PQFs (up from 21,000 PQPs or 90 PQFs)
* Premier 1K: 40,000 PQPs or 200 PQFs (up from 36,000 PQPs or 180 PQFs)

United is also introducing new ways to redeem PlusPoints, allowing frequent flyers to convert them to PQPs, PQFs, travel credit, or even gift elite status to others. Additionally, the airline is enhancing PQP deposits for 2025, offering more flexibility for frequent flyers to earn and maintain elite status.


The increased requirements for elite status may lead to a more concentrated distribution of elite members, with less competition for perks such as complimentary upgrades and priority boarding. However, it remains to be seen how many flyers will be able to adapt to the new requirements and maintain their elite status.

United's decision to raise spending requirements for its MileagePlus program is likely to face backlash from frequent flyers, who will now need to spend more and fly more to maintain their elite status. To manage this potential backlash, United can consider offering transition assistance, introducing new benefits, addressing frequent flyer concerns, and monitoring and adjusting the changes as needed.

In conclusion, United Airlines' recent announcement to increase spending requirements for frequent flyers to earn elite status is expected to have a significant impact on the MileagePlus program and its members. While the changes may lead to a more exclusive group of elite flyers, United must be prepared to manage the potential backlash and adapt to the evolving needs of its frequent flyers.