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United Adds New Ticket Levels for First‑Class Flights

USAFriday, April 3, 2026

United Airlines is overhauling how it sells seats in its premium cabins. Instead of a single price point, the airline will now offer three distinct fare levels:

  • Base – the most economical option.
  • Standard – free seat selection and complimentary checked bags.
  • Flexible – fully refundable, plus all Standard benefits.

The change will first roll out on long‑haul international routes across the United States and select Hawaii flights. The move follows a recent fleet upgrade that introduced more high‑end seats, aiming to retain business travelers and loyalty‑program enthusiasts even as oil costs keep fares high.

United expects the new pricing tiers to launch in a handful of markets shortly, with expansion to additional routes later this year. The company believes offering more choices will help passengers match pricing with their priorities—whether that’s a bargain, added perks, or the flexibility to adjust plans.

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