United Airlines Adds Tiered Fares to Premium Cabins

United Airlines announced on Friday that it will introduce a new tiered fare structure in its premium cabins, offering budget-conscious travelers a lower-cost entry to business and premium economy seats while maintaining higher-priced options with added benefits.

The changes apply to the airline's Polaris business class and Premium Plus premium economy cabins, which feature lie-flat seats, extra legroom and enhanced services compared to standard economy. Starting this month, the base fare will become the cheapest option in these sections on select long-haul international flights, transcontinental U.S. routes and trips to and from Hawaii, with a broader rollout planned later this year. Standard and flexible fares will remain available alongside the new base tier.

Under the base fare, passengers receive one checked bag, access to United Clubs at airports but not the more exclusive Polaris lounges, and the core in-flight experience, including meals. However, it excludes free seat selection, which incurs an additional fee, as well as eligibility for flight changes, refunds or upgrades to higher classes. Standard fares include those features, such as two checked bags and Polaris...