Lounge and frequent flyer changes at United Continental

The United-Continental merger brings a host of changes, including a renaming of lounges and frequent flyer tweaks.

By Mark Chesnut

United and Continental Airlines passengers looking for a quiet respite from the airport hubbub are ducking into a lounge with a new name. The Continental Airlines Presidents Club and United Airlines Red Carpet Club have been renamed United Club, as the latest step in the merger process between the two airlines. The newly dubbed lounges feature the same amenities as before, including free drinks and light snacks, free Wi-Fi, workstations and conference room access.

There are 50 United Clubs operating at 39 airports. Membership rates start at $39 for a day pass or $475 for an annual membership, although rates are lower for elite members of the airlines’ frequent flyer programs. Members also have access to Star Alliance departure lounges when traveling on a Star Alliance member carrier.

The airline has also announced features of its new MileagePlus program for 2012. Beginning early next year, MileagePlus will adopt new status level names and terms for qualifying miles and segments. Premier Silver status will come after 25,000 qualifying miles or 30 qualifying segments; Premier Gold comes with 50,000 miles or 60 segments; Premier Platinum comes with 75,000 miles or 90 segments, and Premier 1K comes after 100,000 miles or 120 segments. Global Services will continue as an invitation-only program for United’s top customers.

Qualifying activity for 2011 in both United’s MileagePlus and Continental’s OnePass will be combined toward qualification for the 2012 Premier program, as well as invitations for Global Services. On January 1, 2012, members will start earning toward these status levels for 2013.

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Mark Chesnut is a travel writer, editor and publisher of LatinFlyer.com, which focuses on travel to Latin America.

Tagged: Midwest, New York