United Airlines Premier Access: Benefits & Cost Guide
United Airlines Premier Access is a premium service designed to streamline the airport experience for passengers seeking convenience and efficiency. Whether you are a frequent flyer or looking to save time on a single trip, this program offers a suite of privileges—including priority check-in, expedited security, and early boarding—to reduce stress and wait times.
United Airlines Premier Access is a priority service package that provides travelers with access to dedicated check-in lines, exclusive security lanes (at participating airports), Group 2 priority boarding, and priority baggage handling. It is included for MileagePlus Premier members and premium cabin passengers, or can be purchased as a trip add-on.
Key Takeaways
- Core Benefits: Includes priority check-in, expedited security (where available), Group 2 boarding, and priority baggage handling.
- Eligibility: Complimentary for MileagePlus Premier members (Silver and above) and premium cabin travelers.
- Purchase Option: Economy passengers can purchase Premier Access as a flight add-on starting from approximately $15 per segment.
- Time Saving: Designed to bypass long lines at the ticket counter and security checkpoints.
How to Get Premier Access Benefits
Accessing Premier Access benefits is straightforward. Travelers can gain these privileges through elite status, ticket class, or by purchasing the add-on directly.
1. MileagePlus Premier Status
Members who achieve Premier status—ranging from Premier Silver to Premier 1K—automatically receive Premier Access. Frequent flyers enjoy these privileges at no additional cost as a reward for their loyalty.
2. Premium Cabin Tickets
Passengers traveling in United’s premium cabins automatically receive Premier Access. This includes:
- United Polaris business class
- United First
- United Business
3. Purchasing the Add-On
If you do not hold status or a premium ticket, you can purchase Premier Access for a specific itinerary. This is available during booking, at check-in via the United app, or at airport kiosks. Prices vary based on the route and demand.
Note: Purchasing Premier Access gives you Group 2 boarding, ensuring you board before general economy (Groups 3–5).
Priority Check-In and Security Screening
One of the most valuable features of the program is priority check-in. Passengers can use dedicated counters designated with the “Premier Access” signage. These lines are typically much shorter than standard economy lines, allowing for rapid bag drops and ticketing.
In addition to check-in, members receive expedited security screening at participating airports. While this does not replace TSA PreCheck, it often provides a dedicated lane (“Gold Track” or “Premier Line”) to bypass the longest general queues.
Priority Boarding Benefits
Boarding early is a significant advantage, especially on full flights where overhead bin space is scarce. Premier Access grants you Group 2 boarding.
| Group | Who Includes |
|---|---|
| Pre-boarding | Disabilities, Active Military, Global Services, 1K |
| Group 1 | Premier Platinum/Gold, United Polaris/First/Business |
| Group 2 | Premier Access Purchasers, Premier Silver, Credit Card holders |
| Groups 3-5 | General Economy, Basic Economy |
By boarding in Group 2, you can settle into your seat and stow your carry-on luggage stress-free, avoiding the need to gate-check your bag due to lack of space.
Priority Baggage Handling
Another perk is priority baggage handling. Your checked bags are tagged with special “Priority” labels. In theory, these bags are loaded last and unloaded first, meaning they should be among the first to appear on the carousel at your destination.
This is particularly helpful for business travelers or anyone on a tight schedule who needs to leave the airport quickly.
Benefits for International Travel
For international flights, Premier Access remains valuable. You still receive priority check-in and boarding. While standard Premier Access does not automatically grant expedited immigration or customs clearance (which usually requires Global Entry), the expedited bag delivery can help you clear customs faster once you retrieve your luggage.
How to Maximize Your Benefits
- Check Airport Availability: Not all airports have dedicated Premier Access security lanes. Check the airport maps in the United app beforehand.
- Use the App: Even with priority check-in, using the mobile app for boarding passes is faster. Use the Premier line specifically for bag drops.
- Combine with PreCheck: For the fastest experience, combine Premier Access (for check-in/boarding) with TSA PreCheck (for security screening).
FAQs
Does Premier Access include TSA PreCheck?
No, Premier Access does not include TSA PreCheck. However, it does provide access to dedicated United security lines at participating airports, which are often shorter than general economy lines.
Is United Premier Access worth the cost?
It is worth it if you are traveling with checked bags or on a busy flight where overhead bin space is limited. The value comes from saving time at check-in and ensuring you can stow your carry-on near your seat.
Does Premier Access give you lounge access?
No, purchasing Premier Access does not grant entry to United Club lounges. Lounge access is sold separately or included with specific premium cabin tickets and credit cards.
Can I buy Premier Access for just one person on a reservation?
Yes, you can choose to purchase Premier Access for specific passengers on a reservation. However, benefits like priority boarding usually extend to companions on the same reservation if the primary traveler has elite status.
What boarding group is Premier Access?
Premier Access passengers board in Group 2. This is after pre-boarding and Group 1 (Polaris/Gold members) but before the general economy groups (3, 4, and 5).