An Ultimate Guide to United Airlines Companion Pass [2023]

34 Shares

The United Airlines Companion Pass is one of the best travel perks you can use to fly cheaply throughout the United States and around the globe.

Although it is not suitable for everyone, if you are a travel geek like us, then the companion pass can be of great value to you.

Let’s learn what exactly a United Airlines companion pass is, what are the methods to get one, and how to use it.

In This Post...

What is The United Airlines Companion Pass?

The United Airlines Companion Pass is a benefit offered by United Airlines to its frequent flyers who have achieved Premier status in the MileagePlus loyalty program.

It allows a companion to travel with the Premier member on any flight operated by United Airlines, even if the Premier member is not travelling on the same flight. It is also known as the United Airlines Buddy Pass.

How Do You Qualify For The United Airlines Companion Pass?

To qualify for the United Companion Pass, a Premier member must earn a certain number of Premier qualifying miles or segments and meet other requirements set by United Airlines. See below for full details.

Once the requirements are met, the Companion Pass can be used for the remainder of the calendar year in which it was earned and for the entire following calendar year.

What Limitations Does the United Airlines Companion Pass Have?

There are some limitations to the Companion Pass, such as blackout dates and limited availability of seats. As such, it’s important to check with United Airlines for specific details and restrictions.

That said, for those who travel frequently with a companion, the United Airlines Companion Pass can be a valuable benefit that provides significant cost savings on air travel.

Search for the lowest prices on United Airlines flights with Skyscanner

Why Does Everyone Want a Companion Pass?

There are several reasons why people may want an airline Companion Pass, such as the United Companion Pass:

Cost savings: One of the main reasons people want a United Companion Pass is the cost savings. By having the pass, travellers can bring a companion on any United Airlines flight for free (excluding taxes and fees) when they purchase a ticket for themselves.

More travel opportunities: Having a United Airlines Buddy Pass allows travelers to bring a friend or family member along on their trips, which can be a great way to spend time together and explore new destinations. It can also provide more flexibility in planning travel, as the companion can fly even if the traveler is not.

Loyalty program benefits: The United Companion Pass is a benefit offered to United Airlines frequent flyers who have achieved Premier status in the MileagePlus loyalty program. For these travelers, the United Companion Pass can be a valuable reward for their loyalty and can provide additional perks and benefits when traveling with United Airlines.

Overall, the United Airlines Buddy Pass is a valuable benefit for frequent travelers who want to save money on air travel and enjoy more opportunities to explore the world with a companion.

Where Does United Airlines Fly?

United Boeing 747 at the gate - United Airlines Companion Pass

United Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the world, flying to destinations across the United States and around the globe. Here’s a quick rundown of some of United’s top international destinations:

London, UK: United Airlines offers multiple daily flights to London from several major US cities.

Tokyo, Japan: United has a strong presence in Tokyo, with flights to both Narita and Haneda airports.

Frankfurt, Germany: United offers flights to Frankfurt from several major US cities, making it a popular gateway to Europe.

Sydney, Australia: United flies to Sydney from San Francisco, offering connections to other Australian and New Zealand destinations.

Cancun, Mexico: United Airlines offers multiple daily flights to Cancun, making it a popular vacation destination.

Amsterdam, Netherlands: United flies to Amsterdam from several major US cities, making it a gateway to Europe.

Paris, France: United offers flights to Paris from several major US cities, making it a popular destination for travelers.

Hong Kong: United Airlines flies to Hong Kong from several major US cities, offering connections to other Asian destinations.

San Jose del Cabo, Mexico: United Airlines offers multiple daily flights to San Jose del Cabo, making it a popular vacation destination.

San Juan, Puerto Rico: United Airlines offers multiple daily flights to San Juan, making it a popular Caribbean destination.

Of course, this is just a small sample of the many destinations United Airlines serves. Whether you’re looking to explore new cultures, soak up some sun, or hit the slopes, United Airlines can get you there.

Oman Air First-Class Experience – 787-9 Muscat to London

The Process to get a United Airlines Companion Pass

To get a United Airlines Companion Pass, you need to be a member of United’s MileagePlus frequent flyer program and meet the qualifying requirements. Here’s a general overview of the process:

MileagePlus Premier Status: To be eligible for the Companion Pass, you must hold MileagePlus Premier status at the Platinum, 1K, or Global Services level. This status requires a certain level of qualifying miles or segments flown with United Airlines or its partners, as well as meeting certain spending thresholds.

Spending Requirement: In addition to MileagePlus Premier status, you must also meet a spending requirement. The spending requirement for the 2021 program year is $24,000 in eligible net purchases on a United MileagePlus credit card during the calendar year.

United MileagePlus Credit Card: To be eligible for the Companion Pass, you must have a United MileagePlus credit card in your name that is open and in good standing.

Companion Selection: Once you have qualified for the Companion Pass, you can select one designated companion to fly with you for free on eligible flights. The companion must be registered with United Airlines and must be the same person for the duration of the program year.

Book your flights: To use the Companion Pass, you’ll need to book your flights directly through United Airlines. When booking, select the option to add a companion and enter their information. You’ll be responsible for paying any taxes and fees associated with the companion’s ticket.

It’s worth noting again that the United Companion Pass benefit has some limitations and restrictions, such as blackout dates and limited availability of seats.

Additionally, the qualifying requirements can be challenging to meet for some travelers, so it’s important to carefully review the requirements before setting your sights on earning a Companion Pass.

Using Your United Companion Pass

Business class seat with women smiling and looking over shoulder towards camera

Using a United Companion Pass is a great way to save money and bring a buddy or family member along on your travels. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use the Companion Pass:

Log in to your United MileagePlus account: The first step is to log in to your MileagePlus account on the United Airlines website. If you haven’t already done so, you’ll need to link your Companion’s MileagePlus account to yours.

Search for eligible flights: When you’re ready to book your flight, search for eligible flights on the United Airlines website. Not all flights are eligible for the Companion Pass benefit, so make sure to check the terms and conditions before booking.

Select “Add Companion”: When you’ve found a qualifying flight, select the “Add Companion” button during the booking process. You’ll be prompted to enter your companion’s information and verify that they meet the eligibility requirements.

Pay for taxes and fees: Once you’ve added your companion, you’ll be responsible for paying the taxes and fees associated with their ticket. These fees can vary depending on the destination and itinerary, so make sure to check the total cost before completing your booking.

Enjoy your flight: Once you’ve completed the booking process and paid the necessary fees, you’re all set to take off on your journey with your companion. Just make sure to check in for your flight and arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare.

United Companion Pass FAQs

What is the United Airlines Companion Pass?

The United Airlines Companion Pass is a travel perk that allows a companion to fly for free (taxes and fees apply) with the primary ticket holder on select United Airlines flights.

How can I get a United Airlines Companion Pass?

You can get a United Airlines Companion Pass by meeting qualifying requirements such as earning MileagePlus Premier status or spending on eligible credit cards.

How long is the United Airlines Companion Pass valid?

If you earned the Companion Pass through MileagePlus Premier status, it will be valid for the remainder of the current calendar year, as well as the following calendar year.

If you earned the United Companion Pass through credit card spending or other promotional offers, the validity can vary depending on the terms of the offer.

How can I remove the details of the existing companion and add a new one?

To remove the details of an existing United companion and add a new one you will need to log in to your United MileagePlus account on. From there, navigate to your account settings and select the option for “Companion information” or “My companions.” Find the companion you want to remove and click on the “Remove” button next to their name.

To add a new companion, select the option to “Add a companion” and enter the necessary information for the new companion, such as their name and MileagePlus number. Make sure to verify that the new companion meets the eligibility requirements for the Companion Pass benefit.

Save the changes and you’re all set!

It’s important to note that the Companion Pass benefit is limited to one companion at a time, so you’ll need to remove the existing companion before adding a new one. Additionally, the process for removing and adding companions may vary depending on your account status and other factors, so it’s best to consult with United Airlines directly for assistance if you encounter any issues or have questions.

What is the overall value of the United Airlines companion pass?

The overall value of the United Airlines Companion Pass can vary depending on your travel patterns and how often you fly with United Airlines.

However, for frequent travelers who meet the qualifying requirements, the Companion Pass can provide significant savings and added flexibility by allowing them to bring a friend or family member along on select flights for free.

Depending on the cost of the flight and the number of times you use the Companion Pass, it’s possible to save hundreds or even thousands of dollars in airfare costs. Additionally, the Companion Pass can be a valuable perk for those who enjoy traveling with others and want to share their adventures with a companion.

Am I allowed to change my flight on a United Companion Pass booking?

Yes, you are allowed to change your flight on a United Airlines companion pass booking, but there may be restrictions and fees associated with making changes.

It’s best to review the terms and conditions of your booking and contact United Airlines directly for assistance with making any changes to your itinerary.

READ MORE: How to keep your documents safe while travelling?

Custom lanyard with badge holder from GSJJ – You take it conveniently and can customize any style you want along with adding your name and phone number on the lanyard. If you lose important documents while travelling, the person who finds it can better contact you.

Final Words

In conclusion, the United Airlines Companion Pass is an amazing perk for frequent travellers who want to share their adventures with a friend or loved one. Not only will you be able to enjoy the pleasures of flying together, but you’ll also have the satisfaction of knowing that you’re getting something for free (and who doesn’t love free stuff?).

So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and earn that United Companion Pass, and soon you’ll be jet-setting across the world with your favourite travel buddy by your side!