Market Update: We break down the business implications, market impact, and expert insights related to Market Update: United now has a ‘base’ fare for business class and premium economy – Full Analysis.
You get what you pay for, and for travelers in United Airlines’ premium cabins, that’s about to mean more – or less – flexibility.
They’ll get to choose.
Just days after announcing their new “Relax Row” seating option for economy and checked bag fee hikes, the Chicago-based airline announced new fare tiers for United Premium Plus and Polaris on select flights. United Premium Plus is their premium economy, while United Polaris is business class.
Similar to United’s existing economy class fare tiers, these new base, standard and flexible categories will offer different perks at different price points.
“These new tiered options give customers more choice and make it easier to find a fare that includes the benefits they want most – whether that’s a great value, added perks, or maximum flexibility,” United’s Chief Commercial Officer Andrew Nocella said in a news release on April 3.
Here’s what travelers should know.
A sample meal offered in the Polaris business class of a United Airlines Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft is displayed during a media event at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on March 24, 2026.
When will this begin?
United’s new premium cabin fare tiers will be rolled out in select markets later in April and expand to other markets later in 2026.
What you get when you buy an upgrade: Premium economy, business and first class explained
Where will this be available?
The new premium tiers will be available on United’s transcontinental U.S. and long-haul flights, including both international and long-haul to Hawaii.
How much will it cost?
Pricing details have not yet been revealed, but base fares will be the lowest, with standard fares in the middle and flexible fares at the top end, offering the most perks.
Drinks and snacks for Polaris passengers are displayed inside a United Airlines Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft during a media preview.
What are the differences in United Premium Plus tiers?
United shared the following table to illustrate differences in the ability to pre-select seats, check bags, change or upgrade flights, and get refunds.
Travelers will be able to pick between three United Premium Plus fare categories.
What are the differences in United Polaris tiers?
United’s new Polaris tiers are similar to Premium Plus, with another major difference: lounge access.
Here are the perks at each tier of United Polaris on international, transcontinental U.S. and long-haul Hawaii routes.
Will you get lounge access?
United has two types of lounges: United Club and United Polaris, with the latter only available at their airport hubs.
Travelers who book United Polaris base fares will have access to United Club lounges.
Those with Polaris standard or flexible tickets may access both United Club and United Polaris lounges.
Are there any changes to United Economy?
No. United’s basic, standard and flexible categories will not change for economy.
The airline said, “they will simply be displayed on United’s shopping pages in a new, clearer way.”
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: United shaking up business class fares with new tier options