United Airlines’ best loyalty perks will soon be reserved for its cardholders. Is the card worth it?

MarketWatch

by Genna Contino

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

United Airlines is set to revamp its MileagePlus rewards program, prioritizing frequent flyers who hold one of its co-branded credit or debit cards. Starting April 2, cardholders will earn up to twice as many miles on airfare purchases compared to noncardholders. Additionally, using the United card to purchase flights directly will yield even higher mileage returns. This move highlights a growing trend in the airline industry to reward loyalty through exclusive cardholder benefits. The announcement marks a significant shift in how airlines structure their rewards programs. By offering enhanced perks for cardholders, United is effectively targeting its biggest spenders and encouraging more frequent use of its co-branded cards. This strategy aligns with broader trends in finance and travel, where cardholder benefits are increasingly seen as a key differentiator. Analysts note that this is part of a copycat industry response to consumer demand for greater rewards and convenience. Other airlines may follow suit, further intensifying competition among credit card issuers and frequent flyer programs. For travelers, this could mean more tailored benefits for those who hold airline-branded cards. For finance-savvy travelers, the decision to obtain a United co-branded card becomes even more appealing, given the potential for higher rewards on travel expenses. However, consumers should weigh the costs and benefits carefully, considering annual fees, interest rates, and overall value compared to other credit card options. This change underscores the evolving landscape of travel rewards and the growing importance of loyalty programs in shaping consumer behavior. For those who prioritize maximizing travel rewards, staying informed about such changes will be key to making smart financial decisions when planning future trips.

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Originally published on MarketWatch on 2/19/2026