United Denies Report of Free Flight Changes Over Florida Airport Name
United Airlines has denied reports claiming passengers can change their destination airport for free if they object to flying into Florida’s newly renamed President Donald J. Trump International Airport.
The speculation emerged after aviation blog Live And Let’s Fly published what it said was an internal memo instructing reservation agents to offer alternative airports, such as Fort Lauderdale or Miami, to customers unwilling to fly into the renamed airport.
However, United has clarified that the information was inaccurate.
In a statement to USA TODAY, the airline said the internal message was poorly worded and did not reflect company policy. While United allows customers to change flights without a fee under certain circumstances, the airline emphasized that an airport’s name or three-letter code is not a valid reason for a free itinerary change.
The clarification puts to rest social media speculation that travelers could avoid the renamed airport at no additional cost simply because of its new name.
The airport, formerly known as Palm Beach International Airport, was recently renamed President Donald J. Trump International Airport, a move that has generated widespread public discussion and political debate.
United says its existing ticket change policies remain unchanged, with standard fare rules continuing to apply unless another eligible waiver or disruption is in effect
