United ditches flight segments, raises bar for 1K in Premier status shakeup
United Airlines is restructuring its MileagePlus loyalty program by removing flight segment counts and focusing exclusively on Premier Qualifying Points (PQPs) for status. Additionally, the airline is raising the PQP requirement for its top-tier 1K status starting in 2027.
Why it matters
Significant changes to loyalty programs affect frequent travelers' spending habits and the value proposition of airline credit cards.
Oct. 13, 2026 • 8 min read Jump to section Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Copy URL Email The cards we feature here are from partners who compensate us when you are approved through our site, and this may impact how or where these products appear. We don’t cover all available credit cards, but our analysis, reviews, and opinions are entirely from our editorial team. Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. Please view our advertising policy and product review methodology for more information. United Airlines is making a big change to how its frequent flyers earn elite status.
Beginning in 2027, the carrier will stop counting the number of flights its MileagePlus members take when awarding status.
Instead, United flyers hoping to become "Premier" will have to focus solely on accumulating Premier Qualifying Points, or "PQPs."
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