Do you get PQP on United basic economy?

Earning Status with United Basic Economy: Yes, You Get PQPs

United Airlines’ Basic Economy fares often get a bad rap for their restrictions. But one key question for frequent flyers is often overlooked: do these budget-friendly tickets help you climb the Premier status ladder? The answer is a resounding yes. While Basic Economy tickets come with limitations on baggage, seat selection, and changes, they do earn Premier Qualifying Points (PQPs).

This is crucial for those looking to reach Premier Silver, Gold, Platinum, or 1K status. With Basic Economy, you’ll accumulate PQPs at a rate of one PQP for every dollar spent on the base fare. It’s important to note that this excludes taxes and fees. So, if your Basic Economy ticket costs $150, with $50 attributed to taxes and fees, you’ll earn 100 PQPs.

While this earning rate is the same as other United fare classes, the lower base fares of Basic Economy mean you might need to fly more frequently to reach a specific PQP threshold compared to someone purchasing standard economy or higher fares. However, for budget-conscious travelers who fly United regularly, the PQP accumulation from Basic Economy tickets can be a valuable stepping stone toward Premier status and its associated perks.

Consider this example: You’re aiming for Premier Silver status, requiring 4,000 PQPs. If you consistently choose Basic Economy fares with an average base fare of $200, you’ll earn 200 PQPs per flight. This means you would need approximately 20 flights to reach Silver status.

While the restrictions of Basic Economy might not appeal to every traveler, the ability to earn PQPs makes it a viable option for those focused on building Premier status while keeping costs in check. Weighing the trade-offs between ticket flexibility and PQP earnings is essential when deciding if Basic Economy is the right choice for your travel needs.