United ditches flight segments, raises bar for 1K in Premier status shakeup - The Points Guy
United Airlines is restructuring its MileagePlus loyalty program by eliminating flight segment requirements and focusing exclusively on Premier Qualifying Points (PQPs). The airline is also increasing the spending threshold required to achieve top-tier 1K status starting in 2027.
Why it matters
These changes reflect a broader industry trend of prioritizing high-spending customers over frequent travelers, significantly altering the value proposition for airline loyalty programs.
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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