United Airlines — Complete Airline Guide 2026
Chicago, Illinois · Founded 1931 · Star Alliance
United Airlines is a major U.S. carrier headquartered in Chicago, operating the most extensive international route network of any American airline. United is the flagship U.S. member of Star Alliance, the world's largest airline alliance. The carrier operates seven domestic hubs and serves every continent except Antarctica. United offers Polaris business class on long-haul routes, United First on domestic flights, and Economy Plus for extra legroom.
United Hub Airports
United Airlines operates from 7 hub airports across the United States:
United Terminal Locations at U.S. Airports
Find which terminal United Airlines uses at airports across the U.S. Click the airport code to see the full airport guide with maps, dining, and more.
| Code | Airport | Terminal | Gates |
|---|---|---|---|
| ATL | Atlanta | Concourse D | D1–D42 |
| BOS | Boston | Terminal B | B1–B38 |
| BWI | Baltimore/Washington | Concourse C | C1–C10 |
| CLT | Charlotte | Concourse D | D1–D20 |
| DCA | Washington National | Terminal C (New) | C39–C59 |
| DEN | Denver | Concourse A, Concourse B | A24–A95, B17–B92 |
| DFW | Dallas/Fort Worth | Terminal E | E1–E38 |
| DTW | Detroit | North Terminal | Gates 1–28 |
| EWR | Newark | Terminal A (New), Terminal C | A1–A33, C70–C139 |
| FLL | Fort Lauderdale | Terminal 4 | Gates H1–H8 |
| HNL | Honolulu | Terminal 2 (Lobby 5–8) | Gates 31–60 |
| IAD | Washington Dulles | Main Terminal & Concourse A/B | A1–A32, B51–B79 |
| IAH | Houston Intercontinental | Terminal A, Terminal B, Terminal C | A1–A30, B1–B86, C1–C42 |
| LAS | Las Vegas | Terminal 3 (Gates D, E) | D51–D60, E1–E27 |
| LAX | Los Angeles | Terminal 7, Terminal 8 | Gates 70–75B, Gates 80–88 |
| LGA | New York LaGuardia | Terminal B (New) | Concourses 1–4 |
| MCO | Orlando | North Terminal (Gates 1–59) | Gates 1–59 |
| MIA | Miami | Central Terminal (Concourses E & F) | E1–E12, F1–F15 |
| MSP | Minneapolis | Terminal 1 — Lindbergh | C1–C25, D1–D12, E1–E18, F1–F17, G1–G25 |
| ORD | Chicago O'Hare | Terminal 1 (Concourses B & C), Terminal 2 (Concourses E & F) | B1–B22, C1–C31, E1–E18, F1–F20 |
| PDX | Portland | Concourse C | C1–C12 |
| PHL | Philadelphia | Terminal D | D1–D16 |
| PHX | Phoenix | Terminal 4 — South | S1–S12 |
| SAN | San Diego | Terminal 2 (East & West) | Gates 30–55 |
| SEA | Seattle | Concourses C & D | C1–C20, D1–D12 |
| SFO | San Francisco | Terminal 3 (Boarding Areas E & F), International Terminal (Boarding Areas A & G) | E1–E12, F1–F21, A1–A12, G1–G14 |
| SLC | Salt Lake City | Concourse B | B1–B28 |
| TPA | Tampa | Airside A | A1–A15 |
United Baggage Policy & Fees
Here's what United Airlines charges for baggage. Fees may vary by route, fare class, and elite status. Always confirm on United Airlines's website ↗.
Baggage Policy
United Check-In Tips
Online check-in opens 24 hours before departure at united.com or the United app. The app supports mobile boarding passes, real-time updates, and virtual queuing at some airports. Bag drop counters close 45 minutes before domestic flights.
MileagePlus — United's Frequent Flyer Program
MileagePlus members earn miles on United flights, Star Alliance partners, and credit card spending (Chase partnership). Premier tiers: Silver, Gold, Platinum, 1K. Benefits include upgrades, Economy Plus access, United Club access (at 1K), and priority services.
Frequently Asked Questions
What terminals does United Airlines use?
United uses Terminal 1 at ORD, Terminal C at EWR, Terminals 7 and 8 at LAX, Terminal 3 and International Terminal at SFO, Terminals B and C at IAH, Concourses A and B at DEN, and Concourses C/D at IAD. Check the specific airport page for details.
What is United Economy Plus?
Economy Plus offers 3–6 inches of extra legroom in economy class. Available for purchase at booking or check-in, or complimentary for MileagePlus Premier Silver and above members. It's a popular upgrade for taller travelers or longer flights.
Does United charge for checked bags?
Yes, United charges $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second on domestic flights. MileagePlus Premier Silver and above members, United credit card holders, and premium cabin passengers check bags for free.
What alliance is United Airlines in?
United is a founding member of Star Alliance, the world's largest airline alliance with 26 member airlines including Lufthansa, ANA, Singapore Airlines, and Air Canada.