United Airlines Increases Elite Status Requirements for 2025
Earning elite status with airlines has become increasingly challenging post-COVID-19, as carriers raise qualification thresholds and shift loyalty programs to prioritize revenue over miles flown. United Airlines has recently announced significant changes to its Premier program, making it tougher for travelers to achieve status in 2025.
Starting next year, United will increase the threshold for all four tiers of its Premier status: Silver, Gold, Platinum, and 1K. To qualify, travelers will need a combination of Premier Qualifying Points (PQPs) and Premier Qualifying Flights (PQFs), both metrics that determine eligibility. PQPs are earned based on the U.S. dollar amount spent on base airfare and surcharges, while PQFs represent the total number of flights taken.
The new requirements for 2025 are as follows:
- Silver: 5,000 PQPs and 15 PQFs, or 6,000 PQPs (previously 4,000 PQPs and 12 PQFs)
- Gold: 10,000 PQPs and 30 PQFs, or 12,000 PQPs (previously 8,000 PQPs and 24 PQFs)
- Platinum: 15,000 PQPs and 45 PQFs, or 18,000 PQPs (previously 12,000 PQPs and 36 PQFs)
- 1K: 22,000 PQPs and 60 PQFs, or 28,000 PQPs (previously 18,000 PQPs and 54 PQFs)
This marks the first increase in requirements since United introduced PQPs and PQFs in 2019, although it had reduced requirements during the pandemic. Starting February 1, 2025, current elite members will receive bonus PQPs to assist in meeting the new thresholds.
While this shift encourages high-spending customers and ensures exclusive perks for those who qualify, it may discourage casual travelers from building loyalty. Those who fall short of the new standards may feel disappointed, potentially leading to a shift towards airlines with more accessible loyalty programs.
As the airline industry continues to prioritize premium customers, the changes to United’s Premier program reflect broader trends that may reshape the landscape of loyalty travel.
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