Does Economy Plus count towards PQP?

Unlocking Premier Status: Does That Economy Plus Upgrade Help?

The quest for airline elite status is a well-worn path, littered with strategies, point calculations, and a healthy dose of travel hacking. For United MileagePlus members, Premier Qualifying Points (PQP) are a critical component of reaching those coveted tiers. But with so many nuances and moving parts, the question often arises: Does upgrading to Economy Plus seating actually contribute to your PQP total?

The short answer is yes! While the initial price you pay for your ticket might not fully reflect the PQP you ultimately earn, upgrades, including those to Economy Plus, can indeed boost your tally.

Here’s a breakdown to clarify how it works:

Who Gets the PQP? The Flyer, Not Necessarily the Purchaser.

First and foremost, it’s crucial to understand that PQP are credited to the flyer’s MileagePlus account, regardless of who actually paid for the ticket. So, if you’re flying on a ticket purchased by your company, you receive the PQP, as long as your MileagePlus number is attached to the reservation.

Initial Ticket Purchase vs. Subsequent Upgrades:

The PQP awarded for the initial ticket purchase are typically based on the fare and distance flown. However, these initial points aren’t the whole story. This is where upgrades come in.

Economy Plus: A PQP Booster

Purchasing an upgrade, whether it’s to Economy Plus, Premium Plus, or even First/Business Class, adds to your overall expense. This additional expenditure contributes directly to your PQP accumulation. Essentially, you’re paying more for the flight experience, and United recognizes this through additional Premier Qualifying Points.

How to Track Your PQP Gains:

After your flight, your MileagePlus account will be updated with the appropriate PQP. You can usually view this information on the United website or through their mobile app. Keep an eye on your account statement to ensure your PQP are accurately reflected.

Why Economy Plus Can Make a Difference:

While an Economy Plus upgrade might not drastically alter your PQP total on a single flight, over the course of a year, these upgrades can add up significantly. They can be the difference between maintaining your current status or reaching the next tier.

In Conclusion:

Upgrading to Economy Plus seating is more than just a comfortable legroom upgrade; it’s a strategic move that can contribute to your Premier Qualifying Points balance. By understanding how upgrades impact your PQP, you can optimize your travel spending and get closer to achieving your desired MileagePlus status. So, next time you’re considering that Economy Plus seat, remember it’s not just about the extra space – it’s also about the extra PQP!