If you’ve experienced poor service or an issue with your flight while traveling with United Airlines, you might feel frustrated or dissatisfied with the situation. United Airlines strives to provide great service, but sometimes problems arise that require further attention. Understanding how to escalate a complaint effectively can help you reach a resolution, whether it's a refund, compensation, or just getting the attention you deserve. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to escalate a complaint with United Airlines and ensure that your concerns are addressed promptly.
Before escalating your complaint, it's important to first reach out to United Airlines' customer service team. The airline typically offers multiple channels through which you can express your concerns:
You can begin by submitting a complaint online through the United Airlines website. Visit the "Customer Service" section and choose the option to submit a complaint. This form allows you to provide details of your experience, including your flight information, the nature of the issue, and any supporting documentation or receipts. After submitting your complaint, you will receive a confirmation email, and United Airlines will usually respond within a few days.
For those who prefer mobile platforms, the United Airlines app allows passengers to submit complaints directly from their smartphones. This process is simple and streamlined, helping you get your message across quickly.
If you’re unable to resolve the issue online or prefer to speak with someone, you can always contact United Airlines Customer Service by calling +1-877-629-0806. A representative will take down your complaint, ask for details, and attempt to resolve the issue. For complaints that are more complex, they may escalate the issue to a higher authority or direct you to the appropriate department.
If you’ve already contacted customer service and did not receive an adequate response, or if your issue remains unresolved, it may be time to escalate your complaint. Here are some scenarios in which you might consider escalating:
Unresolved or Delayed Response: If you’ve received an unsatisfactory response or no response at all within a reasonable timeframe, escalate the issue to ensure it gets the attention it deserves.
Poor Service or Inappropriate Behavior: If you experienced rude behavior from staff, discriminatory treatment, or another form of misconduct, it’s crucial to escalate the matter so that United Airlines can address it properly.
Flight Delays or Cancellations: In cases where you believe compensation for delays or cancellations is warranted, but you’re not satisfied with the resolution offered, escalating the complaint can help.
Refund or Compensation Issues: If you're facing difficulties obtaining a refund or compensation for a canceled flight or a service failure, escalation may be the best way forward.
If your issue isn’t resolved after contacting customer service, you have a few options for escalation:
If you’re on the phone or at the airport and feel that your complaint isn’t being handled properly, you can ask to speak to a supervisor or manager. Managers have more authority and may be able to resolve your issue faster or offer better solutions than front-line agents.
United Airlines has a dedicated Executive Customer Relations team that deals with more serious complaints and issues. You can escalate your complaint to this team via:
Email: Send a detailed complaint to customerrelations@united.com. Be sure to include your flight details, the issue you faced, and any previous attempts to resolve the matter.
Mail: Write to United Airlines at their corporate address:
United Airlines Customer Care
233 S. Wacker Drive, Suite 1800
Chicago, IL 60606
Social media is a powerful tool for getting your complaint noticed. Many companies, including United Airlines, monitor their social media accounts closely. You can tweet to @United on Twitter or send a direct message to their Facebook page. Keep your message concise, professional, and provide the necessary details.
If you’ve exhausted all other avenues and feel that United Airlines hasn’t addressed your complaint fairly, you can escalate the matter by filing a complaint with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). This government agency handles complaints related to air travel and ensures that airlines comply with regulations. To file a complaint, visit the DOT’s Aviation Consumer Protection website.
When escalating a complaint, make sure to provide as much detail as possible to help the airline understand the situation fully. Include:
Flight details: Your flight number, date, and destination.
A clear description of the issue: What happened, when it occurred, and who was involved.
Supporting evidence: Any receipts, photos, or documentation that can support your complaint (e.g., screenshots of communication with customer service).
Desired resolution: Be clear about what you want as a resolution, whether it's a refund, reimbursement, compensation, or an apology.
Escalating a complaint with United Airlines is a step-by-step process, but if you feel that your issue isn’t being addressed, there are several options for taking your complaint further. Whether through speaking with a manager, reaching out to the Executive Customer Relations team, or using social media, United Airlines provides avenues to ensure your concerns are heard. If necessary, you can also file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Transportation for more serious issues. For assistance, contact +1-877-629-0806 for direct support, or explore other channels to ensure your complaint is resolved promptly and effectively.