Introduction

Premier Qualification Points (PQP) are a crucial component of United Airlines’ MileagePlus program. They play a vital role in determining a member’s eligibility for elite status tiers, which offer exclusive perks and benefits to frequent travelers. This article will delve into the calculation process for PQP in the United MileagePlus program and help you understand how this unique unit of measurement influences your membership level.

Understanding PQP

Premier Qualification Points, or PQP, are employed by United Airlines to measure a member’s annual spending on flights. PQP calculation is based on fare cost, excluding taxes and fees, with additional points awarded for higher fare classes and partner airlines. Your PQP total determines your MileagePlus tier qualification – Premier Silver, Premier Gold, Premier Platinum, or Premier 1K.

How PQP Are Calculated

1. Based on fare class: The most straightforward method for calculating PQP is by analyzing the fare class of your ticket. United assesses your purchased fare class (excluding taxes and fees) to allocate the appropriate points:

– For economy tickets (excluding basic economy): You’ll earn 1x base fare in PQP

– For premium economy tickets: You’ll earn 1.5x base fare in PQP

– For business class tickets: You’ll earn 2x base fare in PQP

– For first-class tickets: You’ll earn 3x base fare in PQP

2. Partner airline flights: If you fly with one of United’s Star Alliance partners or other select partner airlines, you can still earn PQP based on a percentage of the distance flown and purchased fare class:

– On most operating carriers within the Star Alliance network or participating partners such as Aer Lingus, Air Dolomiti, Azul, Edelweiss Air, Eurowings Discover or Olympic Air: PQP accrual rates range from 0.5x to 4.5x, depending on fare class

– On Copa Airlines-operated flights ticketed and marketed by Copa Airlines: PQP accrual rates range from 0.5x to 4.0x, depending on fare class

– On Silver Airways operated flights ticketed and marketed by Silver Airways: earn 1 PQP per $1 spent on the base fare, including carrier-imposed surcharges

Remember that taxes and fees are excluded from the calculations.

Maximizing PQP Accrual

To get the most out of your United MileagePlus membership and secure a higher status tier, consider the following tips:

1. Book directly with United and its partner airlines to ensure you collect all available PQPs for your fare class.

2. Upgrade to higher fare classes (e.g., business or first class) to earn more points for each dollar spent.

3. Research partner airlines’ PQP earning rates and choose flights with those boasting higher point accruals.

4. Make use of promotions or credit card offers that reward additional PQPs (e.g., United’s MileagePlus cards)

5. Do not purchase basic economy tickets, as this fare class does not contribute to PQP.

Conclusion

Understanding how Premier Qualification Points are calculated in the United MileagePlus program is essential for maximizing your rewards and optimizing your membership experience. By strategically selecting fare classes, flying with partner airlines, and keeping an eye on special offers, you can ensure an advantageous accumulation of PQPs toward an elevated elite status.