Travel plans can change unexpectedly at any time, and when this happens, United Airlines offers a flexible solution, flight credits. If you have to cancel or reschedule your trip for personal reasons, United Airlines Flight Credits work great. But before that it is very important to understand how it works and this option can help you make the most of your travel investment. Below are some things you need to know to use flight credits effectively.

What Is United Airlines Flight Credit?

Flight credit is actually a form of voucher that United Airlines typically issues to customers if they cancel or change their flight for any reason. The customers can use the credit for their future travel purchases with the United airlines. It allows the passengers to preserve the value of their ticket booking. Two main types of flight credits are discussed below:

Future Flight Credit (FFC) – This type of credit is typically issued by the airlines when you voluntarily cancel your flight. You can use the FFC for most of the United bookings.

Electronic Travel Certificate (ETC) – This form of credit typically issued by the airlines as a goodwill gesture or if a flight is disrupted. With ETCs, you can get more flexibility which also have a longer expiration period.

What is the procedure to Do You Earn Flight Credit?

The flight credits are issued by the airlines in different situations:

Canceling a flight: For voluntarily flight cancelling, United will issue Future Flight Credit for the value of your cancelled ticket excluded any applicable fees.

Flight disruptions: If airlines cancel the flight or significantly changed the schedule due to long delay or other reasons, you can be eligible to receive the Electronic Travel Certificate as compensation.

Travel waivers: During some special circumstances or situation like weather disruptions or global events, United airlines may waive the cancellation fees, which allow you to cancel your flight and receive a credit from the United for your future travel.

How to Use United Airlines Flight Credit

Using your United Airlines flight credit is extremely easy and straight forward. You can do it online or through the mobile app of the airlines. step-by-step guidelines are mentioned below:

· Log into your MileagePlus account: It is very important that you have an account to keep track of all flight credits.

· Find your credit: Then you have to go to the “My Trips” section or search using your all booking information.

· Book a new flight: After selected your flight, you should proceed for checkout.

· Apply your credit: During the payment process, you have to select “Use Future Flight Credit” or “Use Electronic Travel Certificate”. Then, it is the time for applying the credit for the value of your booking.

Important Rules that you should Keep in Mind while apply for credit

Expiration dates: Future flight credits are usually valid for 12 months from the date of issue, while electronic travel certificates can be valid for up to 24 months. So you should check the credit expiry date frequently.

Non-transferable: You cannot transfer the flight credits to other people as they are typically non-transferable. It should be used by the person in whose name the ticket is originally booked.

Partial use: If your new flight costs less than the cost of your previous ticket. The remaining balance can be retained for your future travel.

Tips of how to manage your United Flight Credit Effectively

Check your expiration date: You should check the expiration date of your credit. United Airlines usually extends the expiration dates of credit during extenuating circumstances, you should keep your eye on any updates.

Book ahead: You should plan your next travel trip as soon as possible, as this will ensure availability and maximize your flight credit.

Use for extras: In some cases, the airlines allow to use of the flight credits for additional travel costs, including seat upgrades or baggage fees.

What Happens If Your Credit Expires?

If a United Airlines-issued flight credit expires and no exceptional circumstances arise, you will lose its value. However, airlines have extended the credit period during the COVID-19 pandemic. But it's not always guaranteed, so you should use the credit well before it expires.

Final Thoughts

With United Airlines flight credits, you can get convenience and flexibility to manage travel disruptions. Whether you have a Future Flight Credit or an Electronic Travel Certificate, you have to understand how to manage the travel credit and maximize the value of these credits which will make your future travel experience smoother, excellent, and cost-effective.

FAQ

What is United Airlines flight credit?

United Airlines issues the flight credit when the travelers cancel or change to a non-refundable ticket. The credit can be used to book a new flight for your future travel.

How can I check my flight credit balance?

If you want to check your flight credit balance, you have to log into your United account. Then you need to visit the “My Trips” section on the website, where you will find the option to view your available credits.

How long is my flight credit valid?

Typically, most of the flight credits issued by United Airlines are typically valid for 12 months from the date of issue. However, you need to check your specific credit details and expiration date.

Can I transfer my flight credit to someone else?

No, flight credits are usually non-transferable and must be used only by the original ticket holder.

Can I use flight credit to pay for other services?

No, flight credits can only be used to book flights. They cannot be used for other services like baggage fees or seat upgrades.

How do I apply for flight credit when booking a new flight?

During the booking process of United Airlines, you will receive an option to apply for flight credits before making the final payment. To get the credit information, you should log into your account.

Can I combine multiple flight credits for one booking?

Yes, you have to combine multiple flight credits of United Airlines to pay for a single booking, based on your fare rules.