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FlightLogic is an independent, advertising-supported information service that lets you compare airlines, airports, hotels, and travel products. We do not provide financial advice and we do not recommend specific products or providers. Links marked * are advertising links and may earn us commission at no extra cost to you — always read the terms of any product before booking or applying. Learn more about how we make money.
Good leads the way
United Airlines scores 7.7/10 (safety 9.1/10), ranking #17 globally — Wi-Fi is paid or route-dependent. Baggage: Intl often 1×23 kg; domestic fees apply.
United Airlines is a Star Alliance founding member with Polaris business class on long-haul, an extensive global network from Chicago, Newark, and San Francisco, and MileagePlus as a core loyalty programme for UK–US routings.
Last updated 6 July 2026
Baggage, Wi-Fi, legroom, and lounge access for United Airlines — expand for the full matrix.
| Cabin baggage | Included — standard carry-on allowance applies |
|---|---|
| Checked baggage | Intl often 1×23 kg; domestic fees apply |
| In-flight Wi-Fi | Partial — free messaging or select routes/cabins only |
| Economy seat pitch | 30–31" |
| Lounge access | United Club / Polaris |
| Changes & refunds | No change fees most fares; Basic Economy restricted |
| Loyalty programme | MileagePlus |
United Airlines is a Star Alliance founding member with Polaris business class on long-haul, an extensive global network from Chicago, Newark, and San Francisco, and MileagePlus as a core loyalty programme for UK–US routings.
Key strengths: Polaris lounges and lie-flat business. Extensive Star Alliance network. Strong SFO and ORD hubs. Areas for improvement: Basic Economy restrictions. Polaris product varies by aircraft age.
Star Alliance US giant — Polaris business class, extensive global network from Newark, Chicago, and San Francisco, and MileagePlan redemptions for UK travellers.
United's flagship US lounge for transpacific departures — chef-driven dining, shower suites, and work pods in International Terminal G.
United Polaris Lounge at ORD Terminal 1 — sit-down dining, shower suites, and the primary Star Alliance premium ground product for United long-haul departures.
United Airlines scores 7.7/10 overall on FlightLogic (4-Star), with 5,890 passenger reviews. Strengths include Polaris lounges and lie-flat business; Extensive Star Alliance network.
United Airlines scores 9.1/10 on FlightLogic's safety index — calculated separately from passenger experience using IOSA certification, accident history, fleet age, and regulatory compliance.
United Airlines is a member of star alliance.
United Airlines's primary hub is Chicago O'Hare (ORD) / Newark (EWR) / San Francisco (SFO). The airline was founded in 1926 and operates approximately 900 aircraft.