United Airlines has partnered with CLEAR to offer MileagePlus members free or discounted memberships to the biometric identity service designed to speed and secure the airport experience. CLEAR currently operates at United hubs in Denver (DEN), Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO) and Washington, D.C. (IAD), with plans to expand service to Newark (EWR), Houston (IAH) and Chicago (ORD).
CLEAR uses biometric scans of fingerprints or irises at dedicated lanes in airports, arenas and stadiums to help travelers move through security more quickly and with less hassle. The system pairs secure identity verification with expedited access, reducing time spent in standard security lines.
As part of the new partnership, Global Services and Premier 1K MileagePlus members receive complimentary CLEAR membership. Premier Platinum, Gold and Silver members are eligible for a reduced annual rate of $109, while all other MileagePlus members can enroll at a discounted rate of $119. For comparison, standard CLEAR memberships typically start at around $179 per year.
“Our new partnership with CLEAR is another proof point of how we are always looking to improve traveling with United, in this case by making the airport experience more convenient for customers,” said Luc Bondar, vice president, loyalty, and president, MileagePlus, United Airlines. “CLEAR’s secure and seamless biometric security option creates an expedited travel experience that many of our frequent flyers already use and love. We’re excited to partner with CLEAR to expand their presence at our hub airports and to provide all MileagePlus members with either free or deeply discounted memberships.”