United Airlines is back with its 2025 MileagePlus Status Match Challenge, allowing travelers to enjoy Premier benefits while testing the United flying experience. This challenge runs from January 8, 2025, through June 30, 2025, and allows you to match your elite status from another airline to United’s MileagePlus Premier status for 120 days.
Last year, I personally matched my American Airlines Executive Platinum to United’s Premier 1K status, and I must say, the benefits came in handy on our trip back from St. Thomas. With three complimentary checked bags, priority boarding, and seat selection, our journey was much smoother.
However, one major thing I dislike about United’s elite program is that complimentary upgrades aren’t as generous as those American Airlines offers. For instance, AA offers upgrades on award flights, which United does not. But I will give credit where it’s due—United surprised me by acknowledging my 1K status mid-flight with personalized food options, a nice touch that made me feel valued.
What is United’s Status Match Challenge?
This program allows you to temporarily match your status from another airline and enjoy United’s Premier benefits for 120 days. If you meet the flight requirements during this period, you can retain your Premier status for an extended time.
Eligibility Notes
Before you apply, keep the following in mind:
- You are only eligible every 5 years, so timing is key.
- Members with trial or temporary elite status on other airlines cannot participate.
- During the Challenge Period, benefits are limited to United- and United Express-operated flights. For example, access to Star Alliance lounges may not be available.
Matched Status Chart
Here’s how elite statuses from various airlines align with United’s Premier tiers:
Note: This is a partial list and does not include all carriers or levels, such as my experience of American Airlines Executive Platinum matching to Premier 1K.
How to Maintain Your United Status
Once matched, you’ll enjoy your new Premier benefits for 120 days. To retain the status through the end of 2025, you’ll need to complete a challenge during the trial period. The requirements vary based on the Premier tier you’ve been matched to:
| MileagePlus Premier Status | PQF (Flights) | PQP (Points) |
|---|---|---|
| Premier Silver | 5 PQF | 1,700 PQP |
| Premier Gold | 10 PQF | 3,400 PQP |
| Premier Platinum | 15 PQF | 5,000 PQP |
All qualifying flights must be operated by United or United Express®.
Key Benefits of United Premier Status
Here are some of the perks you can enjoy as a MileagePlus Premier member:
- Premier Silver: Priority boarding, complimentary Economy Plus seating at check-in, and 1 free checked bag.
- Premier Gold: Priority check-in and security, Star Alliance Gold benefits, and 2 free checked bags.
- Premier Platinum: Higher upgrade priority, waived award change fees, and 3 free checked bags.
Ready to Match?
You can submit your match request and view the full terms and conditions here. Make sure you time your challenge strategically to get the most value from your status. Keep in mind that you are only eligible to apply for this program once every 5 years.
If you’ve participated in this challenge before or plan to this year, let me know your thoughts and experiences.
