United MileagePlus: Guide to earning and redeeming miles, elite status and more

United MileagePlus is a great program for travelers loyal to United Airlines or based near a United hub. The program overhauled its cobranded credit card lineup in March 2025 and, this past February, announced some big changes that benefit cardholders, making it even more appealing to travelers ready to double down on United.Whether you're already a frequent United flyer or you're curious about dipping your toe into the program, this guide will answer all your questions about earning and redeeming miles, Premier elite status, United credit cards and more.Related: You can now book United's first Polaris Studio suitesUNITED AIRLINESUnited Airlines partnersUnited is a member of Star Alliance, meaning you can earn and redeem miles with various international airlines through United MileagePlus. United Premier elite members can often enjoy perks like lounge access and extra baggage allowance when traveling with these partners.Here's a look at United's current Star Alliance partners:Aegean AirlinesAir CanadaAir ChinaAir IndiaAir New ZealandAll Nippon AirwaysAsiana AirlinesAustrian AirlinesAviancaBrussels AirlinesCopa AirlinesCroatia AirlinesEgyptairEthiopian AirlinesEVA AirJuneyao Air (a ...