United Airlines Missed Flight Policy

Here’s an overview of United Airlines’ no-show (missed-flight) policy as it applies to United Polaris/Business Class (and all cabins):

What counts as a no-show

You’re considered a no-show if you fail to board your flight and did not cancel or change your reservation before the scheduled departure time. United does not permit voluntary cancellations or changes after departure—missing the flight without prior notice triggers the no-show classification.

Automatic cancellation of remaining segments

If you no-show on any outbound leg, all remaining unused flight coupons on that ticket—including return and connecting flights—are automatically cancelled with no residual value.

Rebooking & fees after a voluntary no-show

• Rebooking options: You may ask to be rebooked on the next available flight in the same cabin/fare class, subject to space.
• No-show fee: A fixed service charge applies (commonly around $75 USD for domestic, up to $200 USD international), plus any difference between your original fare and the new flight’s fare.
• Award tickets: If you no-show an award booking, a $125 USD redeposit fee applies to get your miles back.

Refund eligibility

• Refundable Business fares: You can request a refund of the unused segment—even after missing the flight—though any applicable cancellation fees (outside the 24-hour risk-free window) still apply.
• Non-refundable fares: The unused value is forfeited. If you cancelled before departure, you might recover government-imposed taxes as a credit; after a no-show, no credit remains.

Involuntary no-shows (irregular operations)

Under United’s Customer Commitment, if United cancels or significantly delays your flight, you are not treated as a no-show. You’ll be rebooked on the next available flight in your cabin at no extra cost, or you can choose a full refund of any unused portion.

What to do if you may miss your flight

1. Cancel or change your reservation prior to departure via United.com (“My Trips”), the mobile app, or Reservations.
2. Contact United immediately to preserve any residual value—online, via the app chat, airport desk, or call center.
3. Review your fare rules in your itinerary confirmation under “Fare Conditions” for specific deadlines and fee amounts.

Key takeaways for Business Class travelers:

• Always cancel or change before departure to avoid no-show status.
• A no-show voids your entire ticket with no remaining credit.
• Voluntary rebooking after a no-show incurs a service fee + fare difference; award redeposits incur a flat $125 fee.
• If United disrupts your flight, you’re protected under Customer Commitment for free rebooking or refund.