World-first collaboration allows United MileagePlus members to ditch the cash and pay for Lyft rides with miles
Industry experts hail 'full loyalty loop' that turns daily commutes into free flights — and vice versa
New 'Pay with Miles' feature launches TODAY across the U.S. in massive win for savvy holidaymakers
Bonus Alert: New riders can bag 1,000 extra miles just for linking accounts and taking two trips
Ahead of a record-breaking summer travel season, Lyft and United Airlines are making things even easier for frequent flyers both in the sky, and on the road.
For the first time in U.S. history, jet-setters can now use their hard-earned United MileagePlus miles to pay for their Lyft ride to the airport — or even just a quick trip across town to meet friends.
The "Pay with Miles" feature, which went live this morning, effectively turns your United frequent flyer account into a digital wallet for the road. Whether you're splashing out on a Lyft Black SUV or just grabbing a Standard ride, your miles are now as good as cash.
'EVERY RIDE MOVES YOU FORWARD'
The partnership creates a "full loyalty loop" that competitors are scrambling to match. Not only can you now spend miles on the ground, but the earning rates are some of the most generous in the business.
"Every ride should move you forward — in more ways than one," said Jordan Glassberg, VP of Partnerships at Lyft.
By linking accounts, travelers can rack up points at lightning speed:
4 miles per $1 on pre-scheduled airport rides (The ultimate stress-free start!)
3 miles per $1 on premium Lyft Black and Extra Comfort trips.
1,000 Mile Bonus for new riders who complete two trips in their first month.
HOW TO UNLOCK THE SAVINGS
The genius of the new system is its simplicity. Once accounts are linked, MileagePlus members will see a "Pay with Miles" option directly in the Lyft app before they even hit 'request.'
Short on miles? No problem. The app even allows for "split tender," meaning you can use your remaining miles to knock a chunk off the price and pay the rest with your credit card.
"We’re giving members more ways to use their miles – whether it’s a dream flight or a trip across town," said Jarad Fisher, President of United MileagePlus. "We're unlocking simple, flexible ways to redeem miles across daily life."
A WIN FOR THE LUXURY TRAVELER
For those who prefer the finer things, the collaboration is a dream come true. High-fliers using Lyft Black or Black SUV not only earn miles at a triple-rate but can now use those premium journeys to subsidize their next business class seat.
With United and Lyft now officially joined at the hip, the message to travelers is clear: Why pay for a taxi when your last vacation could pay for your next ride?
To start saving, travelers can link their accounts today at united.com/lyft or via the Lyft app.