10 Things to Know Before Flying United Airlines in the U.S.

Booking a trip with United Airlines usually means you are in for a big adventure across the country. A lot of their longer domestic flights still use the Boeing 757, which is a classic plane that has been around for a long time.

While these older jets get the job done, the experience inside can feel a little different compared to the brand-new planes you might see on social media. It helps to know exactly what the vibe is like before you even get to the gate.

To help you pack your carry-on and set your expectations, we put together the top ten things you need to keep in mind. We are going to break down everything from what the seats feel like to how the crew usually treats passengers.

Knowing these tips ahead of time will save you from unwanted surprises and help you chill out and enjoy the ride, even if things get a little bumpy along the way.

Poor Customer Service at Airports

When you get to the airport, sometimes the people working at the United counters and gates seem super stressed out. They might act hurried or not have much patience, especially if the airport is crowded.

This can make you feel anxious before you even step on the plane, which isn’t a great start to your trip.

If your flight gets delayed or the gate changes, getting clear info can be tough. Sometimes the staff don’t explain things well, leaving everyone confused. When the people who are supposed to help seem like they don’t care, it can really sour the whole mood of your travel day.

Underwhelming United Club Lounges

If you manage to get into a United Club, don’t expect it to always look like a fancy VIP hangout. While some are new and cool, many of the older ones feel a bit tired and worn out.

You might find dark rooms with burnt-out lights or furniture that looks like it has seen better days, which makes it feel more like a busy waiting room than a special place to chill.

Compared to what other airlines offer, these regular clubs can be a bit of a letdown. They aren’t anywhere near as nice as the fancy Polaris lounges you might see online.

If you were hoping for a super comfy space to grab a snack and charge your phone in style, the inconsistent quality might leave you wishing you just stayed at the gate.

Frequent Delays and Slow Processes

United has a bit of a reputation for running late, so it’s smart to plan for extra time. Sometimes the plane arrives behind schedule, or the crew takes a while to clean and get it ready for the next group of passengers.

Even a small delay can cause bigger problems, especially if you have another flight to catch right after.

You might find yourself stuck waiting at the gate longer than expected because the boarding process gets held up. When these kinds of slowdowns happen often, it makes it hard to count on the airline’s schedule.

It’s a good idea to have a backup plan or at least a fully charged phone to keep you busy while you wait.

Cramped Business Class Seats

Paying extra for a business class seat on United doesn’t always guarantee a super roomy experience. On many domestic routes, especially on older planes, the seats can feel a bit old-fashioned and tight.

You might not get as much legroom as you’d hope for, and the overall space can feel less special than what you’d expect for a pricier ticket.

Little things can be annoying too, like power outlets that are hard to reach or wires getting in your way. When you see the slick, modern business class seats that other airlines have, these older designs really show their age.

It’s worth checking the seat map for your specific flight so you know what kind of space you’re actually getting.