Is United Airlines Platinum hard to get?

Is It Difficult to Qualify for the United Airlines Platinum Status?

Elite status is also part of United Airlines’ MileagePlus frequent flyer program, and there are several tiers that flyers can become a part of. The middle tier status is called Platinum. This gives the passengers more privileges that include free upgrades, free check-in bags, priority services, and many others. However, is attaining United Platinum status challenging? Here are some key considerations: Here are some key considerations:

Qualification Requirements

A new United Platinum member based on flight activity alone has to fly 75,000 Premier Qualifying Miles or 90 Premier Qualifying Segment plus $9000 Premier Qualifying Dollars in one calendar year. For many travelers, those thresholds mean as many flights to be taken and paid for in more expensive fare classes.

Competition for Upgrades

Because the members of the United Elite receive free upgrades, competing for those upgrades with Platinum status can be a challenge whenever there are other higher-ranked elites. Your upgrade priority is lower than Million Milers and 1Ks as well as paying Business/First passengers.

Partnerships Help

To be more precise, it is easier to acquire PQMs and PQSs if you travel often with United’s Star Alliance members, such as Lufthansa and ANA. Mileage accumulation is based on the same principle so that you can easily requalify. Credit card spending also does so:

All in all, it does take quite a few paid flights to reach Platinum every year if one does not get there through United credit card promos or United status match. However, other travel perks such as added award seats, Economy Plus, and waiver fees are enough to encourage United Flyers to go for Platinum status to get maximum benefits. This level is one of the hardest to obtain and then maintain every year for any of the mid-tier airlines.