United Adds New Ticket Levels for First‑Class Flights

United Airlines is changing how it sells seats in its premium cabins. Instead of just one price, the airline will now offer three levels: base, standard and flexible. The plan starts on long‑haul international routes, across the U. S. , and some Hawaii trips. The base option is the cheapest. Standard tickets let passengers pick a seat for free and check extra bags at no cost. Flexible tickets are fully refundable and include every benefit of the standard fare. This shift follows United’s recent upgrade of many planes to higher‑end seats.The company is hoping that people who travel for business or love loyalty points will keep flying even if prices rise. Oil costs are expected to stay high, so United is looking for ways to keep passengers on board. United says the new fares will launch in a few markets soon and then spread to more routes later this year. The company believes the extra choices will help customers find a price that matches what they value most, whether it is a good deal, extra perks or the freedom to change plans.