It’s common for travel credits to only have a validity of up to a year. But since a lot of travelers are still hesitant to travel during a pandemic, United made a pro-customer move to extend the expiration of their flight credits.
United Airlines announced that flight credits on tickets purchased between May 1, 2019, and December 31, 2021, will be valid until December 31, 2022.
Two Types of Travel Credits
United Airlines issued two types of flight credits. One is the “future flight credit”. This flight credit goes with a flight reservation. Once the passenger cancels the flight or if the passenger is moved to a lower-cost flight, there will be a remaining balance that can be used until the December 2022. Only the original passenger can use this flight credit.
Then, there’s the second type of credit called the Electronic Travel Certificates (ETCs). This is the type of credit given as compensation for delayed flights, irregular operations, and denied boarding instances. This flight credit can be used by the passenger and shared with other travelers.
United extended the expiry for both of these flight credits. According to United, “As part of an ongoing effort to offer more flexibility, we’ve extended the validity of eligible tickets and travel credits through December 31, 2022”. The statement added that “Tickets purchased January 1, 2022 and beyond will have a 12-month validity from date of purchase”.
Easier to Redeem The Credits
Aside from extending the expiration, the airline also made it easier for passengers to redeem credits. United passengers can redeem via the website or United’s mobile app. First, the passenger will select the flights that he or she plans to book. On the checkout page, the passenger can select which type of flight credit they want to use. They can choose either “Electronic certificates” or “Future flight credits”.
Unfortunately, passengers can’t mix the two credits for one booking. However, you can combine either multiple ETCs or multiple future flight credits when buying one ticket.
Last June, lawmakers demanded the Transport Department to force airlines to either extend the flight credits or issue cash refunds. The lawmakers said that “We believe the DOT must take strong action to address these complaints and ensure the return of travelers’ money”.
