When it comes to affordable air travel, few options are as enticing as the United Buddy Pass. Offered as a coveted perk to United Airlines employees and their eligible companions, this travel benefit opens the door to significantly reduced airfare. But what exactly is a Buddy Pass? Who can use it? And how do you make the most of this opportunity? Let us guide you through everything you need to know.
What Is a United Buddy Pass?
A United Buddy Pass is a non-revenue travel benefit extended by United Airlines to employees, retirees, and their eligible friends or family. These passes allow companions to fly standby on United flights at a fraction of the cost of regular tickets. Since it’s a standby travel option, there’s no guarantee of a seat—passengers are only allowed to board if there are empty spots after all paying passengers and higher-priority non-rev travelers have boarded.
Who Can Issue a Buddy Pass?
Buddy Passes can only be issued by:
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Current United Airlines employees
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Eligible retirees
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Some subsidiaries or partner airline staff (with certain restrictions)
The issuer can assign Buddy Passes to friends, extended family members, or even acquaintances, depending on their personal preference. However, the number of passes is limited annually, so recipients should consider it a privilege and use them responsibly.
Eligibility Requirements for Buddy Pass Users
To use a United Buddy Pass, the following criteria must be met:
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The user must be added to the employee’s travel profile through United’s employee travel portal.
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Proper identification is necessary, including a government-issued ID that matches the booking details.
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Users must agree to abide by the Non-Rev Travel Code of Conduct, which includes dress codes and behavioral expectations.
How Does Standby Travel Work on a Buddy Pass?
Flying on a Buddy Pass means you’re flying standby, also known as space-available travel. This system operates on a boarding priority hierarchy:
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Active employees and their eligible dependents
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Retirees
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Other United staff and affiliates
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Buddy Pass holders (lowest priority)
If the flight is overbooked or fills up, Buddy Pass travelers may not board. In peak travel seasons, this could mean waiting hours or even days to get a seat. Therefore, flexibility is crucial when planning to use a Buddy Pass.
How Much Does a United Buddy Pass Cost?
While the Buddy Pass is not free, the cost is usually a small fraction of a regular airfare. It is calculated based on a set service fee and potential international taxes or surcharges, depending on the flight route. Here’s a general estimate:
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Domestic Flights (within the U.S.): $25 – $75 one-way
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International Flights: Can range from $75 – $300+ (due to taxes and airport fees)
Despite these costs, flying with a Buddy Pass still presents a huge savings opportunity.
Benefits of Using a United Buddy Pass
Buddy Passes offer more than just cheap flights. Here’s what makes them attractive:
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Massive cost savings compared to traditional fares
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Access to international and domestic United routes
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Chance to explore last-minute travel options
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Great for non-urgent travel plans
For frequent leisure travelers with flexible schedules, Buddy Passes can become an unbeatable hack to fly more often.
Risks and Limitations of the Buddy Pass
Though highly valuable, Buddy Passes come with notable drawbacks:
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No seat guarantee: Standby travelers can be bumped or wait hours/days
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Low boarding priority: Especially during busy seasons or popular routes
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Strict conduct policy: Any misconduct can result in revocation of privileges for both the passenger and the employee who issued the pass
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Limited baggage allowance in some standby cases
To minimize stress, always check flight loads, have backup plans, and avoid tight connections.
Travel Tips for Buddy Pass Users
If you’re lucky enough to get a Buddy Pass, follow these expert travel tips to maximize success:
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Travel mid-week or off-peak seasons: These flights are less likely to be full.
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Use tools like United’s staff travel portal to view passenger loads.
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Arrive early: Being on standby means being ready to board at any moment.
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Dress smart: United’s standby travelers are expected to maintain a neat and respectful appearance.
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Be patient and courteous: Gate agents have discretion—kindness goes a long way.
International Travel with a Buddy Pass
Yes, Buddy Passes can be used for international flights, opening the door to destinations like Europe, Asia, South America, and beyond. However:
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Be aware of visa requirements for non-U.S. citizens.
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Expect higher taxes and airport fees.
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Understand that flight loads on popular international routes can be very tight—flexibility is key.
United Airlines Buddy Pass vs Other Airline Programs
Compared to other airlines, United’s Buddy Pass system is on par in terms of cost and process. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | United Airlines | American Airlines | Delta Air Lines |
|---|---|---|---|
| Access to International | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Dress Code Required | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Issuer Must Be Employee | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Lowest Priority Boarding | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
While processes may differ slightly, the core concept remains similar across major U.S. airlines—Buddy Passes are designed as goodwill perks, not entitlements.
Important Etiquette: Representing the Employee
Always remember: Your behavior directly reflects on the employee who gave you the Buddy Pass. Any misconduct (e.g., arguing with staff, dress code violations, excessive complaints) may not only result in your removal from the flight but could also jeopardize the employee’s job or benefits. Be respectful, humble, and flexible.
Final Thoughts: Is the United Buddy Pass Worth It?
For flexible travelers, the United Buddy Pass is absolutely worth considering. While it doesn’t guarantee luxury or punctuality, it provides massive travel value—especially for those with time on their hands and an adventurous spirit. It’s an ideal travel hack for budget-conscious explorers who enjoy spontaneity.
If you’re planning a trip using a Buddy Pass, do your research, maintain etiquette, and embrace the unpredictability that comes with it. When used wisely, a Buddy Pass can open doors to unforgettable travel experiences without breaking the bank.
