Does basic economy count toward status?

Does Basic Economy Count Toward Status? A Breakdown for United Premier Members

United Airlines’ Premier program offers elite status tiers, granting members valuable perks such as priority boarding, free checked bags, and lounge access. But what about the budget-conscious flyers opting for Basic Economy fares? Does flying in Basic Economy count towards earning or maintaining your United Premier status?

The answer is a resounding no.

While Basic Economy fares offer a lower price point, they come with several limitations, including:

• No seat selection: You’ll be assigned a seat at check-in, often in the back of the plane.
• No free checked bags: You’ll need to pay to check your bags.
• No upgrades: You won’t be eligible for complimentary upgrades to higher cabin classes.
• Limited carry-on: You’ll have to fit your belongings under the seat in front of you, with no overhead bin space.
• Boarding last: You’ll be the last to board the aircraft, meaning less time to find your seat and stow your belongings.

But here’s the catch: Premier members can enhance their Basic Economy flights with additional benefits. By paying a small fee, you can enjoy perks like free checked bags, priority boarding, and even access to United Club lounges.

This means that even if your ticket is booked as Basic Economy, you can still unlock exclusive perks aligned with your status.

Here’s how it works:

1. Purchase a Basic Economy ticket.
2. Choose to add Premier benefits at the time of booking or at a later stage.
3. Enjoy the enhanced experience, including priority boarding, free checked bags, and other benefits that match your Premier status.

In conclusion: While Basic Economy tickets don’t directly contribute towards earning or maintaining your United Premier status, you can still enjoy your status perks by enhancing your Basic Economy flights with additional benefits.

This allows Premier members to enjoy a comfortable and convenient travel experience, even when opting for a more budget-friendly fare.