United Airlines makes massive change to popular program weeks after Southwest ditched perk – and it will cost you $100s
FOLLOWING Southwest’s removal of a popular perk, United Airlines has made several big changes to its rewards programs.
As the popular carrier raises its annual fees for its rewards credit cards and yearly lounge membership, flyers will have to dish out more cash to enjoy the perks.Many airlines have been tweaking their loyalty programs as they face growing struggles, including cramped first-class cabins and lounges at the airport.
United Airlines is now on the list, charging customers more for its annual airport lounge pass and rewards credit cards, the company announced on Monday.
Here are several of the changes that customers can expect regarding United Airline’s airport lounges:
The company will offer two tiers of 
Previously, United Club membership with guest privileges cost $650 annually.
A new individual membership, granting access to United Clubs for the member only, will cost $750 or 94,000 miles per year.The major American international airline is rolling out a handful of new perks as well to combat the changes, including sign-up bonuses for its co-branded cards from JPMorgan Chase.For access to United Clubs and Star Alliance lounges for the member and up to two guests, the new “United Club All Access” membership is priced at $1,400 or 175,000 miles annually.
Existing memberships will keep their terms until they expire.United Airlines is also launching new cardholder benefits such as rideshare credits and award flight discounts.
“Yes, there are fee increases but we were very, very cognizant of ensuring that the value increments and the benefits that are delivered outweigh any increase in the cost of those cards,” Richard Nunn, chief executive of United’s MileagePlus loyalty program, shared with reporters.
There are fee increases but we were very, very cognizant of ensuring that the value increments and the benefits that are delivered outweigh any increase in the cost of those cards.”He noted that the company had been working on the changes to its card portfolio over the past year or so.
