+1-833-654-7126  How Do I Get Status on United Airlines?

Frequent flyers know that elite airline status can unlock a world of benefits—from free upgrades to priority boarding and lounge access. But understanding how to get status on United Airlines can feel overwhelming with all the requirements, points, and travel thresholds. If you're trying to maximize your travel experience or save on perks, gaining elite status with United can be a game-changer.

To earn status with United Airlines, you must accumulate Premier Qualifying Flights (PQF) and Premier Qualifying Points (PQP) within a calendar year. Higher tiers unlock more valuable perks. Status can be earned through flying, credit card spend, or partner activity.

Why United Airlines Status Matters for Frequent Travelers

The competition for value and comfort in air travel has never been higher. Travelers want more than just a seat—they want early boarding, waived fees, and VIP treatment. United Airlines' MileagePlus Premier program offers elite status that gives flyers access to these coveted privileges.

However, many travelers don't know where to start or how close they are to reaching a new tier. Unlike legacy loyalty systems, United uses a dual-qualification system (PQF and PQP), which can be complex if you're not familiar with the rules.

Understanding the United MileagePlus Status Tiers

United Airlines offers four levels of Premier status within its MileagePlus program. Each level comes with its own benefits and qualification thresholds.

Premier Status Levels at a Glance

PQF = Premier Qualifying Flights | PQP = Premier Qualifying Points

United also allows status qualification by PQP-only, bypassing PQF for high spenders.

How to Qualify for United Airlines Status

Option 1: Earn PQF and PQP Through Flying

The most common way to earn elite status is by flying United or its airline partners. Each flight earns PQF and PQP based on:

• PQF: Earned per flight segment
  
  

• PQP: Based on the fare price (excluding taxes/fees); generally $1 spent = 1 PQP on United tickets
  
  

For example, a roundtrip with one stop each way would earn 4 PQFs. If your fare was $500 before taxes, you'd earn 500 PQPs.

Option 2: PQP-Only Qualification

Instead of combining PQF and PQP, travelers can qualify for Premier status with just PQP, though the thresholds are higher:

This path is ideal for travelers who take fewer flights but purchase higher-priced tickets.

Additional Ways to Earn PQP Without Flying

1. United Co-Branded Credit Cards

United’s credit cards from Chase can help you earn PQP toward status.

• United Explorer Card: Earn up to 500 PQP per year
  
  

• United Quest Card: Earn up to 3,000 PQP
  
  

• United Club Infinite Card: Earn up to 4,000 PQP
  
  

• United Business Card: Earn up to 1,000 PQP
  
  

Credit card spending does not contribute to PQF but can help you reach PQP-only thresholds.

2. Star Alliance & Partner Airlines

Flights on partner airlines like Lufthansa, ANA, or Air Canada can earn PQP and PQF if booked through United or credited to MileagePlus.

• Earnings vary by fare class and carrier
  
  

• Always check United’s partner earning charts
  
  

Unlocking the Benefits of United Elite Status

Once you earn Premier status, you’ll receive significant upgrades in your travel experience. Here’s what you gain:

Premier Silver

• Free checked bag
  
  

• Priority boarding (Group 2)
  
  

• Complimentary upgrades on domestic flights
  
  

• Access to preferred seating
  
  

Premier Gold

• All Silver benefits
  
  

• Two free checked bags
  
  

• Access to Economy Plus at check-in
  
  

• Star Alliance Gold status: priority boarding, lounges, and check-in across all partners
  
  

Premier Platinum

• All Gold benefits
  
  

• Three free checked bags
  
  

• Complimentary Economy Plus at booking
  
  

• 40 PlusPoints (upgrade credits)
  
  

• Expanded award travel options
  
  

Premier 1K

• Highest upgrade priority
  
  

• 280 PlusPoints per year
  
  

• Waived redeposit and change fees
  
  

• Premier Access for check-in, security, and boarding
  
  

• Free same-day flight changes
  
  

How to Track Your Progress Toward United Status

To see your current qualification progress:

1. Log in to your MileagePlus account
   
   

2. Go to "My Account"
   
   

3. Check your year-to-date PQF and PQP totals
   
   

4. Review your qualifying flight activity
   
   

5. Monitor expiration dates and thresholds for tier upgrades
   
   

Using the United app also makes it easy to track status on the go.

FAQ

Q1: Can I get United status without flying?
Yes, you can earn status through credit card PQP contributions, though you’ll still need to meet minimum thresholds.

Q2: What counts as a PQF?
Each flight segment earns one PQF. A nonstop flight earns one; a flight with a layover earns two.

Q3: How often does United reset status progress?
Status qualification is based on the calendar year (January 1 to December 31). Progress resets every year.

Q4: Can I combine partner airline flights with United flights to earn status?
Yes, as long as your MileagePlus number is added, and the partner flight qualifies for PQF and PQP earnings.

Q5: Is Premier 1K status worth it?
For frequent flyers who travel often on business or internationally, 1K offers unmatched value with upgrades, waived fees, and dedicated support.

Conclusion: Make the Most of Every Mile with United

Earning status on United Airlines isn't just about flying more—it's about flying smarter. Whether you're a frequent business traveler or a leisure flyer aiming to get more out of every trip, understanding how to accumulate PQF and PQP is key to unlocking elite benefits.

From free upgrades to airport lounge access and waived fees, the perks of United's MileagePlus program can drastically improve your travel experience. Start by tracking your flights, leveraging United credit cards, and booking eligible fares to build toward the next status tier.

For help with flight booking, MileagePlus enrollment, or status inquiries, contact United Airlines support at +1-833-654-7126 or +1-888-803-1162.