United Airlines Introduces New 'Base' First-Class Fare
The airline's cheapest first-class option comes with increased restrictions on seat selection, baggage, and flight changes.
United Airlines is launching a new, lower-cost first-class fare option called "base," which will offer a more restricted experience for passengers. This new fare tier, set to roll out in the fall, is the most basic offering within the airline's first-class and business-class cabins.
The "base" fare comes with limitations such as fees for seat selection and fewer checked baggage allowances. Passengers choosing this option will not be able to change their flights or receive refunds. For these amenities, travelers will need to opt for the "standard" or "flexible" fare tiers.
For domestic flights, the "base" fare includes one checked bag and one carry-on. The "standard" fare provides free seat selection, two checked bags, one carry-on, and allows for flight changes but not refunds. The "flexible" fare includes free seat selection, two checked bags, one carry-on, flight changes, and ticket refunds.
On international routes to Canada, Latin America, and the Caribbean, the "base" United Business fare includes one checked bag, one carry-on, and United Club access, but no flight changes or refunds. The "standard" option offers free seat selection, two checked bags, one carry-on, United Club access, and flight changes, while the "flexible" fare adds ticket refunds to these benefits.
United's website states that regardless of the selected tier, passengers will receive the same elevated onboard experience associated with the first-class or business-class cabin. The airline has not yet announced specific launch dates for the new fare.
This change follows other recent adjustments by United Airlines. In February, the airline updated its noise policy to require passengers to use headphones when listening to audio on personal electronic devices. In March, United introduced new cabin designs that increase the number of premium seats while reducing options in the standard coach section. These new designs include features like the "United Relax Row," which offers three adjacent seats with adjustable leg rests that can form a lie-flat space.