United anticipates obligation: no surcharges for family travel seated close together

United Airlines has announced a New policy regarding the sale of seats on board when traveling as a family. One should not misunderstand: Was not a move of generosity. The company did not decide to freely leave this money in the pockets of travelers, but simply anticipated what will soon be prohibited by law, since Biden has heavily criticized these practices of "junk fees" and announced the enactment of an executive order that will ban this and many other similar practices.

What changes when traveling with family

United announced a change in rules on seating for families traveling with children under 12. You will no longer be asked to pay for your choice of place, in any travel class, even basic economy. The child will then be able to travel next to a parent at no extra charge.

From the beginning of March, when traveling with a child under 12 when choosing a seat via website or app, the system will only suggest paired seats, with no additional charge required.

In cases where adjacent seats are not available before travel due to last-minute reservations, full flights, or unplanned plane changes, United's new policy also allows customers to upgrade for free to a flight to the same destination with adjacent seat availability in the same cabin. In addition, customers will not be charged any fees if there is a difference in the fare price between the original and the new flight.

"In an era when more families are working in a hybrid environment, they are traveling more often and flying United," said Linda Jojo, United's chief customer officer. "We are focused on providing a great experience for our youngest passengers and their parents, and we know that often starts with the right seat. We look forward to implementing more family-friendly features this year.

Among the goals of this new policy is an attempt to avoid discussions at the gate, or on board, that generate stress and flight delays.

• travel with children