If you're flying with United, this guide walks you through their cabin types, seat selection options, and other important details to know before departure. We strive to keep this information up to date, but airline policies can change without notice. For the most accurate and current details, we recommend checking directly with United at www.united.com.
Airline overview
Airline alliance
United is part of the Star Alliance. The airline code is UA.
Cabin types
United offers the following cabins on select routes:
- Economy class | United Economy
- Premium economy class | United Premium Plus
- Business class | United Business OR United Polaris
Go Ahead Tours cannot request First Class cabin seats.
If you are interested in a cabin upgrade, please visit this article: Requesting a flight upgrade
Economy fare types
Many airlines offer multiple distinctions within their economy cabin. Each airline uses slightly different terms, so read on to see how United structures its economy fare options.
United economy options
| Fare type | What it means | What Go Ahead books | How upgrades work |
|---|---|---|---|
Basic Economy |
Lowest fare with the most restrictions |
❌ We never book this fare |
- |
Economy |
Standard economy ticket |
✔️ This is what we book |
May be able to upgrade to Economy Plus at seat selection |
Economy Plus |
Extra legroom + up-front seats |
Not included at booking |
To upgrade further: Requesting a flight upgrade |
Good to know
All of the above are still Economy tickets.
We can only request your cabin, not a specific economy fare type.
Economy fare type upgrades must be handled directly with United.
Seat selection
When seat selection is available
Seat selection is typically available:
- Once your flights are released (around 60-80 days prior to departure)
- After ticketing (around 30 days prior to departure)
- During online check-in (24 hours prior to departure
- At the airport
Costs for seat selection
Most seats will require an additional fee for advance selection, which must be paid directly to the airline. These fees vary based on route, fare type, and seat location.
If you choose a seat at check-in and do not change your fare type, you will be able to select a seat for no additional charge.
How to select your seat
You can choose your seat through:
- The airline’s website: www.united.com
- The airline’s mobile app
- Online check-in
Once your flights are released around 60-80 days prior to departure, you’ll find your 6-character airline record locator in your online account, which you’ll use to access your booking on the airline’s site.
Check-in options
Here’s how you can check in for your flight:
- Online check-in: Yes
- Opens: 24 hours prior to departure
- Other options: Airport kiosk or counter check-in