
United Airlines Hikes Lounge Membership Fees to Curb Overcrowding
United Airlines has announced a significant increase in its airport lounge membership fees, a move aimed at reducing overcrowding in its lounges across the United States. Starting next month, the annual membership cost will rise from $650 to $850, marking the airline's first price adjustment in over a decade. This change comes as United seeks to balance the demand for its popular lounges, which have seen a surge in usage following the post-COVID travel boom.
The decision has sparked a mix of reactions among frequent flyers and industry analysts. Some passengers express frustration over the steep price hike, while others see it as a necessary step to maintain the quality of service in the lounges. Financial analysts, meanwhile, are watching closely to see how this move affects United's stock price, especially in comparison to competitors like Delta and American Airlines, who have yet to announce similar changes.
Alongside the fee increase, United is also tweaking its rewards and credit card programs to better manage lounge access. This strategic overhaul is part of a broader effort by the airline to enhance customer experience and maintain its competitive edge in the bustling aviation market.