New for 2009: minimum flight mileage accrual for elites
For all United segments of less than 500 miles flown on or after January 1, 2009, elite members will earn a minimum of 500 redeemable miles and 500 Elite Qualifying Miles. Flight segments greater than 500 miles in length are not affected by this change. Complete information.
General members will continue earn actual flight miles on all United flights.
This policy does not affect mileage accrual on Star Alliance and partner carriers. Visit our Airline Partner Guide and refer to the individual carrier's accrual policy for full details.
United Airlines and United Express together operate more than 3,600 flights a day to more than 200 U.S. domestic and international destinations from its hubs in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Denver, Chicago and Washington, D.C. With key global air rights between the US and Asia, Europe and Latin America, United is one of the largest international carriers based in the United States.
United is a founding member of Star Alliance. The miles you earn on United and United Express can be accrued in Mileage Plus. And the flight miles you earn qualify toward elite status. You earn one Elite Qualifying Mile (EQM) for each flight mile you earn and one Elite Qualifying Segment (EQS) for each segment you fly.
When you fly on United or United Express on a paid ticket in First Class (F, A, P), Business Class (C, D, Z) and unrestricted Economy (Y, B) you earn a 50% EQM/EQS bonus.
Ensure your Mileage Plus number is in your reservation at check-in. But if you do not receive your miles go to Retro Credit.
For award reservations, call United Reservation and request the International Desk.
When you're ready to redeem your miles, here's an overview for the different types of 
