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United Airlines

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Overview

United Airlines has a rating of 1.7 stars from 190 reviews, indicating that most customers are generally dissatisfied with their purchases. Reviewers complaining about United Airlines most frequently mention customer service, next day, and worst airline problems. United Airlines ranks 253rd among Plane Tickets sites.

  • Service
    68
  • Value
    65
  • Shipping
    30
  • Returns
    31
  • Quality
    50
Positive reviews (last 12 months): 5.6%
Positive
2
Neutral
1
Negative
33
17
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What reviewers want you to know

Positive highlights

No positive highlights yet

Critical highlights

  • The customer service reps were unfriendly, rude, some even downright lied to me as to the status of retrieving it.
  • I did book a 9PM flight but I'm shocked at how rude the flight attendant was especially considering it is first class.
How would you rate United Airlines?
Top Positive Review

“The best Customer service.”

PARVIN B.
10/4/22

As soon as i arived at the Airport. I saw customer is coming towered me asking can i help you. Said yes please. I am here to help. She helped me all the way. The Pilot was very nice talking when he needed to talk. I didn't see any problem with customer serving in the Plain. They helped me in the Shutter with all my Bags. All customers were really nice and quite. I will chose UNITER AIRLINE from now on.

Top Critical Review

“Consistent Delays”

D Z.
3/19/23

About 90% of the time I fly United there are always last minute "technical delays." The plane can be at the gate for hours and only when we've all boarded, door is closed, then they realize there's some tech issues. It's really frustrating that their consistent issues are at the expense of the passenger. Last, the majority of service received is typically rude, standoffish, and uncaring. Any business employee treating customers like many of United employees do would be terminated. Being captive under poor conditions is not appropriate. Asian and European airlines do it right, not United.

Reviews (190)

Rating

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Other

Reviews that mention popular keywords

customer service (47) flight attendant (9)
Thumbnail of user jennifernicoleruby
1 review
0 helpful votes
January 14th, 2024

My trip was cancelled for the second time in 5 days due to weather… a winter weather cancellation for Wisconsin. With nothing but a refund, I've had to take of work for 10 days to attempt to go on vacation, with a low of 2°. Just curious how people in Alaska fly? Thanks for nothing United Airlines I'll make sure I suggest you to no one! Hope you have a wonderful day!

Thumbnail of user Zero.climate
1 review
0 helpful votes
January 22nd, 2024

Don't uphold prices and try to charge you different stating the prices on their app for the past month are an "error"

Tip for consumers:
Fly with anyone else.

Products used:
Flights

Service
Value
Shipping
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Quality
Thumbnail of user karad143
1 review
0 helpful votes
April 30th, 2024
Verified purchase

After arriving at the airport my and my husband's flight from Zurich to Newark, NJ was delayed for 2 hours and 50 minutes (the airlines out of Europe must reimburse you if they are delayed for 3 or more hours, hence 2 hours 50 minutes). We were supposed to leave at 10:10 and were delayed until 1:00. We got a text that the plane was boarding so we went and stood on line for almost 1 1/2 hours until they finally told us that our flight was cancelled. Long story short, we were not able to book another flight for 2 days and we were told that United would reimburse us for meals, lodging and taxis to and from the airport. They told us to keep our receipts and submit them for reimbursement. After spending over 9 hours in the airport we finally left (without our luggage because it couldn't be retrieved until hours later and we had to go back and get it/search for it ourselves). We kept all of our receipts and submitted them to United only to be told "United's auditors have reviewed them and will approve $580 USD for your expenses. For additional expenses to be considered, please provide receipts that show the items purchased, not just a total of the items purchased." NO ONE told us at the Zurich airport when my flight was cancelled to keep Itemized receipts! Instead of being reimbursed $1319.88 USD, we are getting less than half for our inconvenience. Absolutely insulting! Shame on you United!

Service
Value
Thumbnail of user parvinb1
1 review
0 helpful votes
October 4th, 2022

As soon as i arived at the Airport. I saw customer is coming towered me asking can i help you. Said yes please. I am here to help. She helped me all the way.
The Pilot was very nice talking when he needed to talk. I didn't see any problem with customer serving in the Plain. They helped me in the Shutter with all my Bags.
All customers were really nice and quite. I will chose UNITER AIRLINE from now on.

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Value
Shipping
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Quality
Thumbnail of user luiss808
1 review
0 helpful votes
January 27th, 2024

United airlines is one of the worst airliners to operate in the USA. They are cheaper for a reason and that reason is that they have the worst service of all the major operators. Spent 1 hour inside a plane at IAF waiting for the pilots to show up. Nevermind that this was already after missing my connecting flight because of a lightning storm (understandable btw for safety reasons). But they love to rub salt on wounds when they are already in the wrong with the customer. They are a mess and no wonder they went bankrupt before and at this pace, I feel they are heading in the same path. I will avoid United from now on and recommend others not to use this company for their travel as they will find a way to make it a bad experience.

Service
Thumbnail of user sanyangsaffiek
1 review
1 helpful vote
October 26th, 2023

My mum was abandoned at the United airlines in Chicago from Brussel because she can't speak English. When I bought the ticket, I make sure they know that she can't speak English and she needs help. But United airlines from Brussels didn't care. They make her misses all her flights and she was in the airport for 2 days without water or food. Chicago ohare police's and very professional United Flight attendant UA450 called Nathan. Nathan is very professional, kindhearted, he care for his passengers, listen to them, help his passengers and he is always smiling.Mr Nathan in UA450 is the flight attendant that every flights needs. Nathan professionalism safe my mum from missing her flight again. Thank you Nathan and Chicago Ohare police for kindness and professionalism. My mum is so Grateful to meet good person like Nathan on her flight from Chicago to Seattle!

Thumbnail of user angelab1057
2 reviews
0 helpful votes
October 18th, 2023

Traveling from Knoxville to Hartford, first flight was delayed over an hour due to mechanical issue. Missed my connection flight and they couldn't get me another flight for 5 hrs. Their policy is $15 food voucher? Are you kidding a breakfast sandwich here is 12$ literally can't buy anything in the airport to eat for $15. Ridiculous. Will NEVER FLY UNITED AGAIN!

Products used:
United airlines flights

Service
Value
Thumbnail of user justint698
1 review
0 helpful votes
December 11th, 2023

I booked my flight in advance and selected an isle seat for a reason. When I went in to check in the day before it auto changed my seat to a window seat. It would not allow you to go back in to change the seat once the check in was complete. What is the purpose of picking a seat but not being able to keep it. Might as well have a first come first serve seating. Very disappointed in this airline.

Products used:
United Airlines

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Value
Shipping
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Thumbnail of user brandonb227
2 reviews
2 helpful votes
June 19th, 2018

If you are price conscious, and only need a flight for the day, United's basic economy is for you. However, for the price of one bag added to your flight, you will find a plethora of airlines that include carry-on, snacks, and beverages. Be cognizant of the low cost as a bait and switch to get you to purchase the ticket. Once you have purchased, you cannot change anything associated with your ticket. Everything is an added cost - buyer beware!

Thumbnail of user donniep44
1 review
0 helpful votes
December 13th, 2023

My baggage did not arrive when I arrived, due to a late departure and layover flight changes. So that was understandable. What was not understandable or acceptable was that it took them 24 hours, after the report was made and the baggage was tracked down, to even put the baggage on a subsequent flight to my final destination - even though there were 3 or 4 of those United flights preceding the one it did finally get put on. During this time there were no updates from them. I had to make an effort to get information.
When the bags arrived at the airport, no one notified me they were here or when I would receive them. I had to call to investigate and they absolutely refused to give me a time when they would be delivered - just within 24 hrs of their arrival (48 hours of my arrival). So on this 5 day visit for Christmas, I'm spending 2 days waiting for baggage - without knowing when it will arrive - that contains absolutely everything for my trip, including Christmas gifts for family.
Not one person I spoke with seemed compassionate or like they were making an effort. They were all on automatic: "I'm sorry for your inconvenience but I don't know when you will get your bags". What could be more "inconvenient" than not having anything you organized and packed for a trip for HALF of your visit? I give them an F for how they handled this and I think it reveals a lot about their customer service caliber, training, and general conscientiousness.
This incident occurred following a flight which departed an hour late for "technical issues" which really was the source of the problem.
So, as I said, "Good luck if there's a problem!"
Mine still hasn't been resolved.

Tip for consumers:
This review is not about the inflight experience.
It’s about the customer service when issues occur.

Products used:
Airplane flight

Thumbnail of user carrollalvin90
1 review
0 helpful votes
December 22nd, 2023

I use to think United was one of the better airlines. Not anymore. I noticed it a couple of years ago, how the airline is getting worse. Now it is the worst one I've been on by far. I was traveling from Corpus Christi to Manila Philippines Saturday December 9th on the 7:20 am flight to Houston. My flight was delayed due to mechanical failure. I was stuck in Corpus airport for almost 8 hours. Watch planes come and go to Houston. While I'm being told there's no room for me yet. As if I already don't have a 24 hour flight ahead of me with no problems. The staff was very rude, and unprofessional. By the time I got to Houston, I had another 4 hour layover. Checked in to one of their Club Lounges at my expense. Long story short, I arrived to my destination a day later. After I returned home, I filled a complaint telling my experience, and looking for some sort of reimbursement for my time and expenses for the trip there. I received an immediate email in return stating someone would reach out to me in 21 - 28 days. No later than 6 weeks. I got a response in less than 24 hours saying all they can do is give me a $100 voucher/certificate that expires in 1 year to go towards my next flight. I was blown away. My ticket was $2,900. I felt like they intentionally insulted me to get under my skin. I won't lie. I will fly again with them locally. Because I have a lot of air miles. But after that's gone………. I'll never spend another penny with United in this lifetime. And that's my advice to everyone. Don't just take my word for it. Read the rest of the reviews. United has downgraded to the worst airline (I've ever been on anyway). But still charging elite prices.

Service
Value
Thumbnail of user howardp8
3 reviews
86 helpful votes
March 10th, 2018

Nicely run with the occasional bad incident where they toss out a passenger. However, on the whole not a bad place.

Thumbnail of user vanessa8266
1 review
0 helpful votes
December 18th, 2023

This is the worst airline I ever had! The flight got canceled due to airplane issues. They asked us to pay for the hotel and fees ourselves first and they will reimburse us by uploading the receipts from their website. I uploaded all the documents in June and they mentioned they issued the payment to me, but until now I received nothing. It had been 6 months now. I emailed them many many times, but the rep, Luz from Customer Care Management, never replied or provided any information about the payment. Very dishonest and just keep telling lies to the customers. Please stay away from this airline!

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Thumbnail of user gerlindw
1 review
0 helpful votes
September 9th, 2023

Sep 7th, 2023, my family (2 adults, 2 girls 7 years old) had to fly back to Germany from Tucson AZ. They checked in, my grandkids were upset to leave me. The friendly man behind the counter (sorry don't know his name) must have seen it. We were sitting and hugging when he came and asked for my ID. He took it and went behind the counter. After a few minutes he came back and gave me a visitor pass the I could go with them to the gate and had 90 more minutes with my grandkids. It meant so much to them and me. After this, it continued to be like this. The people in the security department were just as nice. Making the whole experience so personal and friendly. Maybe there is hope that we can get back to the world we had before Covid?!?! Thank you so much!

Service
Thumbnail of user pradhankanjan
1 review
1 helpful vote
October 28th, 2023

Really bad customer service. In this Trip I encountered so many United airlines people and they are arrogant and do not behave and communicate properly.

Thumbnail of user carolmcampbell3
1 review
0 helpful votes
September 2nd, 2023

Great service at boarding gate Denver. Allowed elderly and others who need more time to board early. Had wheel chair available.

Service
Value
Thumbnail of user dz30
4 reviews
8 helpful votes
March 19th, 2023

About 90% of the time I fly United there are always last minute "technical delays." The plane can be at the gate for hours and only when we've all boarded, door is closed, then they realize there's some tech issues. It's really frustrating that their consistent issues are at the expense of the passenger.

Last, the majority of service received is typically rude, standoffish, and uncaring. Any business employee treating customers like many of United employees do would be terminated.

Being captive under poor conditions is not appropriate.

Asian and European airlines do it right, not United.

Tip for consumers:
Fly another airline

Service
Value
Thumbnail of user qkelania7
1 review
1 helpful vote
October 18th, 2023
Verified purchase

My worst flight experience was with United Airlines on July 21st. I had booked a flight from Ottawa to New Jersey because I had a business meeting scheduled for 12 noon. The flight was scheduled for 6 a.m., and I expected to arrive at 7 a.m., thinking I had enough time in case of any flight delays.
However, my flight was delayed for 7 hours, and it didn't take off until 1:15 p.m. and the airport attendants informed us this was due to a fire extinguisher functionality. By the time I arrived at my destination, my business meeting had already concluded, rendering the entire trip pointless.
Upon returning home, I promptly filed a compensation complaint (Case ID: **************). The response time to my complaint was disappointingly slow. I eventually received an email offering two options: a cash compensation of $600 or a travel voucher worth $1000, valid for 12 months. Since I had no immediate travel plans for the next year and the voucher would expire within 12 months, I opted for the cash compensation. I provided my address as requested for a check to be mailed out.

To my surprise, I received a response from United Airlines stating that I did not qualify for the compensation option I had chosen. Instead, they offered a travel voucher worth $200. United Airlines claimed the flight was disrupted due to safety reasons, hence I do not qualify for compensation.

This experience was incredibly frustrating and disappointing and I will not advise anyone to travel with United Airlines if you have an important appointment the same day.

Products used:
Joined the same flight

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Thumbnail of user georgec1321
3 reviews
6 helpful votes
September 27th, 2023

Received normal service, everything was clear and without delay. There were no issues with the booking either. Maybe I'm just lucky of course.

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Thumbnail of user katarzynal5
1 review
0 helpful votes
June 29th, 2022

United cancelled our connecting flight from Newark to Nice, France on a moment's notice due to "mechanical issues". Their customer service was terrible- stood in line for 3+ hours only to be told the people at the airport have no authority to help you in any way- can't issue refunds, theirs options for rebooking are laughable (yes, let's travel from NY to San Francisco to maybe get on a waitlist for a flight to France! WTF!), and on top of that they are incompetent in not even being able to issue a valid taxi voucher or booking you into a hotel on Staten Island in the middle of nowhere only to find out at 2 am that hotel has no rooms available. Impossible to get a hold of them to issue any sort of refund and we had ti pay out of pocket to get back home to Chicago and book a flight through another airline to France losing 2 days in the process. United should be held liable from a criminal perspective For their actions- it's deceptive marketing at best and outright fraud at worst. Stay away from United at all costs!

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Thumbnail of user honia.azizi
1 review
1 helpful vote
November 14th, 2023

A flight attendant name "Nathalie Gravenstij" kicked us off the plane yesterday because we asked where out seat is! Yesterday (11/13) we were supposed to fly back home from MCO to IAD, the flight was supposed to depart at 4:25 PM (flight UA 2065) but due to an unfair and humiliating harassment caused by a flight attendant name Nathalie Gravenstij, we got kicked out off the plane. Here is what happened: They announced that the plane is experiencing some cargo issues so the luggage will be on a different flight, we said sure. Time comes for boarding the passengers, my husband, two young children and myself went on the plane and found out they have changed the seat numbers for several people. My husband politely asked the flight attendant where he should sit. We immediately heard the flight attendant screaming at him saying you do not talk to me like that, I will throw you off the plane. We were shocked and several other passengers asked that flight attendant why she would behave like that and she grabbed the boarding pass out of that other lady who was confronting her! Then the flight attendant asked my husband (rudely) to just sit down on that empty seat. He did and asked where my little daughter should sit.The flight attendant raised her voice and started screaming at my husband in front of our kids. She said "That's it! I am kicking you all off of this plane" then immediately went and grabbed the phone and called the Capitan, security person or the ticketing manager (couldn't tell whom she is calling), they came and asked what happened. Another passenger (whom her boarding pass was pulled from her hand by the same flight attendant) testified and said how rude that person was. The security guy asked the Capitan and then came back and told us the Capitan wants no trouble so you guys should all leave the plane!
When we got off, the manager came and apologies, found out the name for that flight attendant:
"Nathalie Gravenstij" and sent us home on the next flight which departed 3 hours later. My kids were traumatized and started crying. The management insisted that we file an official complaint.

Tip for consumers:
A flight attendant name “Nathalie Gravenstij” kicked us off the plane yesterday because we asked where out seat is! Yesterday (11/13) we were supposed to fly back home from MCO to IAD, the flight was supposed to depart at 4:25 PM (flight UA 2065) but due to an unfair and humiliating harassment caused by a flight attendant name Nathalie Gravenstij, we got kicked out off the plane. Here is what happened: They announced that the plane is experiencing some cargo issues so the luggage will be on a di

Thumbnail of user kathieh80
1 review
1 helpful vote
August 16th, 2023
Verified purchase

My flight from Denver to Atlanta left 30 minutes late. The air conditioner control was broken and the plane was freezing. Staff said sorry, but nothing they can do. No charging ports in United Airlines waiting area in Denver nor on the plane itself. Waited over 45 minutes in Atlanta for bags to arrive in baggage claim.​

Thumbnail of user royr42
2 reviews
5 helpful votes
April 21st, 2016

The cabin was comfortable, staff were very kind, and prices manageable. Would recommend to friends!

Service
Value
Quality
Thumbnail of user nessa8266
2 reviews
5 helpful votes
September 24th, 2023
Verified purchase

They canceled my flight on June 18,2023, due to their mechanical problem, and they asked us to pay for the hotel and meals ourselves first without any arrangements for that night. They said passengers can submit it to their website and be reimbursed it later. They are a liar and never respond to your request. When you contact them, they will ask you to submit to many different departments and say your money cannot be refunded. Hate this airline so much, just feel like they are a thief and have stolen money and are lying to me! It is the worst experience I had with an airline!

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Thumbnail of user joes2933
1 review
1 helpful vote
June 26th, 2023
Verified purchase

Booked flights 8 months ago. Constant flight changes. No help at all. Had to spend a whole day of vacation.just trying to contact them. Basically I hope they go out of business, they should fire everyone involved in customer service, but then again it appears they don't have anyone in their customer service dept so should be easy.

Tip for consumers:
I hate united

Products used:
Flights

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Shipping
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