MileagePlus members can use a MileagePlus Upgrade Award for another traveler, and Premier members can use PlusPoints for someone else, even if they are not traveling on the same reservation.

Yes, you can use your United MileagePlus miles to upgrade another person, even if you are not traveling with them. In 2026, United remains one of the more flexible airlines regarding "gifting" upgrades. To do this, you simply log in to your account, go to "My Trips," and search for their confirmation number and last name. You can then select the "Upgrade" option and choose to pay with your own miles. If you have Premier Platinum or 1K status, you can also use your PlusPoints to request upgrades for friends or family members on their own reservations. A major 2026 update also allows Elite members to use PlusPoints or miles to upgrade companions even on "Award Tickets," a benefit that was previously much more restricted. It is important to remember that these upgrades are subject to "Upgrade Award" availability (often designated as "R" or "O" class), and if the upgrade doesn't clear immediately, your miles will be returned to your account if the waitlist fails to clear by the time of departure.