United Airlines Raising Fees for Travel Perks

Core Points - United Airlines announced changes to its lounge memberships and rewards credit card offerings, increasing annual fees while introducing new benefits for cardholders [1][2] - The individual lounge membership now costs $750 or 94,000 miles, while bringing two guests will cost $1,400 or 175,000 miles, up from the previous $650 [1][2] - The updates have been in development for about a year, with the CEO of MileagePlus stating that the price increases are justified by added value and benefits [2][3] Membership Growth - United Airlines has experienced substantial growth in its MileagePlus membership, with approximately 17 million new members joining in recent years [3] Financial Performance - The airline reported a 10% increase in "other" revenue, totaling $3.49 billion last year, attributed to increased spending on co-branded cards, partnerships, and lounge memberships [4] - The airline industry is facing lower first-quarter forecasts, prompting airlines to explore creative revenue strategies [4] Credit Card Fee Changes - United Explorer card fees will increase from $95 to $150, with a $60 rideshare credit included [5] - United Quest card annual fees will rise from $250 to $350, now including $100 in rideshare credits, two upgrades to extra legroom seats, and $200 in travel credits [5] - United Club Infinite Card fees will increase from $525 to $695, including an annual lounge membership, $150 in rideshare credits, and the ability to earn Premier 1K elite status through spending [5]