What is Premier Access on United Airlines?

Everything You Need to Know for a Smoother Airport Experience

When flying, many travellers wish they could breeze through the airport like VIPs—skipping long lines, getting better service, and having less stress. If that sounds appealing, then United Airlines’ Premier Access might be exactly what you’re looking for.

Premier Access is a special set of services offered by United Airlines to make the airport experience faster and more convenient. But is it worth it? How do you get it? What exactly do you get with Premier Access?

This article will walk you through everything you need to know about Premier Access on United Airlines—what it includes, how to get it, who it’s for, and whether it’s right for you. We’ll also answer common questions and help you decide how to make your next trip smoother from check-in to boarding.

What is Premier Access?

Premier Access is a package of airport services that helps eligible travelers move through the airport more quickly and efficiently. It includes:

• Dedicated check-in lines
• Priority security screening lanes (at select airports)
• Priority boarding
• Priority baggage handling

Premier Access doesn’t give you a better seat on the plane or access to United Club lounges, but it does make your airport journey more comfortable and less time-consuming.

What Does Premier Access Include?

Let’s break down each benefit of Premier Access so you know exactly what to expect:

Premier Access Check-In

Skip the long lines at standard economy counters. Premier Access gives you access to dedicated check-in counters. These lines are usually much shorter and faster.

Where you’ll see it:
At major airports, look for “Premier Access” signs at the check-in area.

Premier Access Security Lane

At select airports, Premier Access includes access to exclusive TSA security lanes. These lanes typically move quicker than standard lines.

Important Note:
You still go through the same TSA screening process—Premier Access just gives you access to shorter, faster lanes.

Priority Boarding (Group 2)

With Premier Access, you board the plane earlier—usually in Group 2, right after United First and Premier 1K passengers.

This means:

• You’ll get first pick of overhead bin space
• You can settle in before the crowd
• It reduces stress, especially on full flights

Priority Baggage Handling

Your checked bags are tagged as Premier Access, so they are among the first to be delivered at baggage claim.

Time saved: No more standing around the carousel for 20 minutes!

💼 Who Gets Premier Access?

You can get Premier Access in several ways:

United Premier Members

If you’re part of United’s MileagePlus Premier loyalty program (Premier Silver, Gold, Platinum, or 1K), you automatically get Premier Access benefits.

First and Business Class Passengers

If you’re flying in United Polaris, First Class, or Business Class, Premier Access is included in your ticket.

Star Alliance Gold Members

If you’re a Star Alliance Gold member flying on a United-operated flight, you also get Premier Access.

United Credit Cardholders

Select United-branded credit card holders, especially those with premium cards like the United Club℠ Infinite Card, may receive Premier Access as part of their card benefits.

Buy Premier Access

Not a frequent flyer or credit card holder? No problem—you can purchase Premier Access when booking your ticket or even afterward (if available).

✈️ Premier Access vs. Other United Perks

Let’s compare Premier Access to other services United offers:

Feature	Premier Access	United Club Pass	MileagePlus Status	Economy Plus Seat
Priority Check-in	✅ Yes	❌ No	✅ Yes	❌ No
Priority Security	✅ Yes	❌ No	✅ Yes	❌ No
Priority Boarding	✅ Yes	❌ No	✅ Yes	✅ Sometimes
Lounge Access	❌ No	✅ Yes	❌ Some Levels	❌ No
Extra Legroom Seat	❌ No	❌ No	✅ Sometimes	✅ Yes

As you can see, Premier Access focuses on airport convenience, not in-flight perks.

🌍 Is Premier Access Available Worldwide?

Premier Access is widely available at most major U.S. airports and many international hubs. However, availability may vary depending on the airport and the airline’s ground handling partners.

To be safe:

• Check airport services when booking
• Ask at check-in if the service is available at that location

✨ Is Premier Access Worth It?

That depends on your travel style. Ask yourself:

👍 When It Might Be Worth It:

• You’re flying from a busy airport with long lines
• You travel with carry-on luggage and want overhead space
• You’re on a tight connection
• You value your time and peace of mind

👎 When It Might Not Be Worth It:

• You’re flying from a small airport with short lines
• You’re already in Group 1 or 2 boarding
• You’re traveling with no checked bags
• You have TSA PreCheck (which often provides faster security lines)

🧠 Tips for Using Premier Access

1. Arrive Early Anyway: Premier Access speeds up the process, but it’s not a guarantee—especially during peak times.
2. Combine with TSA PreCheck: The two services work well together for a smoother security experience.
3. Don’t Confuse With Lounge Access: Premier Access does not include United Club access.
4. Check Your Boarding Pass: Look for the Premier Access designation to use the correct lines.
5. Use the Priority Tag: Make sure the agent tags your luggage correctly for priority handling.

🛫 How to Know If You Have Premier Access

Once you check in (online or at the airport), your boarding pass will display “Premier Access” near the top. This grants you access to all applicable Premier Access lanes and services.

If it’s missing and you believe you qualify (through status or class), ask an agent to confirm.

Should You Get Premier Access?

Premier Access is a smart and affordable way to simplify your airport experience—especially if you’re flying out of a busy hub, carrying a lot of baggage, or just want less stress on your travel day.

For frequent travelers, business flyers, or anyone who hates long lines, it can be a valuable investment.

For occasional or budget-conscious travellers, you may prefer to save the fee and just arrive early.