Introduction:

Understanding the calculation of United Premier Qualifying Points (PQP) is essential for frequent flyers who wish to maximize the benefits of their United Airlines loyalty program. This article breaks down the process of determining PQP, providing insights into how these points are earned and accrued.

What are United PQP?

United Premier Qualifying Points (PQP) are a crucial component of the United MileagePlus program, which determines a flyer’s elite status within the airline’s loyalty program. Elite status is classified into different tiers: Premier Silver, Premier Gold, Premier Platinum, and Premier 1K. Earning PQP contributes to an individual’s progression through these tiers, unlocking enhanced travel privileges such as priority boarding, complimentary upgrades, baggage benefits, and more.

Calculating United PQP:

The calculation method for United PQP underwent a significant change in 2020. Previously, flyers accumulated premier qualifying miles (PQM), premier qualifying segments (PQS), and premier qualifying dollars (PQD). Now, the system focuses on two main factors: Premier Qualifying Points and Premier Qualifying Flights (PQF).

1. Flights on United Airlines and United Express:

For flights operated by United Airlines and United Express, PQPs are earned based on the base fare charged and any carrier-imposed surcharges. The number of PQPs you can earn will vary depending on your travel class:

– Economy Class: 1 PQP per $1 spent

– Premium Economy (including Economy Plus): 1.5 PQPs per $1 spent

– Business Class: 2 PQPs per $1 spent

– First Class: 3 PQPs per $1 spent

2. Partner Flights:

When flying on a Star Alliance partner or another MileagePlus partner airline with specific fare
classes that earn award miles, PQPs are based on a percentage of your award miles earned. This requires passengers to use the multiplier for each partner airline, found on United’s website, and multiply the base award miles earned by this percentage.

3. Promotions and Bonus PQPs:

Occasionally, United Airlines offers promotions that allow you to earn bonus PQPs. Be on the lookout for these exclusive offers as they can significantly boost your PQP balance and aid in achieving a higher elite status.

4. Credit Card Earnings:

Select United Airlines co-branded credit cards offer opportunities to earn additional PQPs based on your spending. However, there are annual earnings limits depending on the credit card. For further information about earning PQP through eligible credit cards, refer to your card’s terms and conditions or explore United’s website.

Important Tips:

– The PQP earning rates are subject to change at any time, so it’s crucial to keep yourself updated on any changes made by United Airlines in their MileagePlus program.

– Keep track of your PQP balance by logging into your MileagePlus account regularly to monitor progress towards achieving or retaining an elite status.

– Remember that taxes, fees, and government-imposed surcharges do not contribute to your earned PQP.

Conclusion:

Understanding how United PQP are calculated is an essential aspect of making the most out of the MileagePlus loyalty program. By staying informed about the earning process and taking advantage of every opportunity to accrue points, you can unlock various benefits associated with achieving a higher elite status. Happy flying!