United ups mileage requirements

Travelers enjoy what can best be described as a love/hate relationship with their frequent flier programs. It has been that way from the start, but now United Airlines' powerful Mileage Plus program is increasing the number of miles needed to get a standard economy award ticket. From October 16, it will take 50,000 miles to earn what 40,000 miles used to, 20 per cent more.

Crain’s Chicago Business (United is headquartered in suburban Chicago) reports company officials as saying that they’re making the move to match the redemption levels of most competitors.

There is more news for Mileage Plus fliers: from October 16, United will also start charging a $50 fee for fliers who choose to convert miles into a standard or saver award seven to 13 days prior to departure. Book six or fewer days before you want to travel and it will cost $75. However there is no charge for the carrier’s elite 1K Mileage Plus members.

The best strategy to beat this new fee is to make your travel plans far enough in advance, and make sure that those plans are rock-solid.

Other Mileage Plus changes in the works include extending the Short Haul Saver Awards until the end of 2006. This initiative allows travelers to book a trip of 700 miles or fewer within the 48 contiguous states, or between the United States and Canada, for 15,000 miles instead of the regular 25,000.

© Cheapflights Ltd Jerry Chandler