United MileagePlus just significantly increased the price of its international first class awards. Chazabaza and Let’s live and fly. Frankly, I’m not sure this change is all that significant, but these increases are in the ballpark.
United MileagePlus increases first class award fees on ANA and Lufthansa
United Airlines has eliminated international first class on its own planes, but allows redemptions for first class on Star Alliance partner airlines. For flights on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, the program appears to have significantly increased international first class redemption rates.
For example, the cost of a Lufthansa first class award ticket between the U.S. and Europe has increased from 121,000 miles to 154,000 miles each way, representing a 27% increase.
Meanwhile, the first class price for All Nippon Airways award tickets between Japan and the U.S. has increased from 121,000 miles to 242,000 miles, a 100% increase.
United MileagePlus doesn’t publish award charts, so there’s not much transparency when it comes to price updates. However, I don’t think this is a glitch, as this isn’t the first time United Airlines has significantly increased redemption rates for partner benefits.
This rating drop is bad, but it shouldn’t be a problem for most people
Needless to say, a 27% price increase is tough, but a 100% price increase is downright painful. However, I think the meaning here is quite limited.
First, both ANA and Lufthansa currently have very little first class award space available, so your chances of securing these seats with miles are much more limited than before.
The other thing is that United MileagePlus doesn’t actually have very competitive award costs on these redemptions. First class on All Nippon Airways and Lufthansa offers greater discounts when using Air Canada Aeroplan and Avianca LifeMiles. Additionally, when it comes to ANA awards, you can find the best deals through Virgin Atlantic Flying Club.
So in most cases, smart travelers shouldn’t book these first class awards through United MileagePlus in the first place.
It’s disappointing to see the direction United MileagePlus has taken in recent years when it comes to partner redemption values. United Airlines doesn’t seem to be investing in offering great partner perks opportunities, especially in their premium cabins. Just as United Airlines looks up to Delta Air Lines when it comes to passenger experience, it appears to be following Delta’s example when it comes to the value of miles.
conclusion
United MileagePlus is significantly increasing the cost of award redemptions for international first class travel, including travel on All Nippon Airways and Lufthansa. In some cases, the cost of redeeming a First Class award can increase by up to 100%, which is very demanding.
MileagePlus wasn’t the best way to book these awards before the latest changes. And it’s definitely not the best way to book these benefits even after the change.
What do you think about the MileagePlus Awards updates?
