Track United flights through the airline's website, mobile app, or by phone

United Airlines offers three main ways to track your flight: the United website, the United mobile app, or by calling United directly. The website and app both show real-time gate information, departure and arrival times, and any delays or cancellations. You do not need a ticket number to start — a confirmation code or flight number is enough.

The fastest method is the United mobile app, which sends push notifications when your flight status changes. The website works just as well if you prefer not to read an app. Both update every few minutes during the day your flight departs.

Key Takeaways

  • Visit united.com or open the United app, enter your confirmation code or flight number, and you will see real-time status, gate, and time changes.
  • The United app sends automatic notifications when your departure time, gate, or status changes, so you do not have to keep checking.
  • Call 1-800-UNITED-1 (1-800-864-8331) if you cannot access the website or app, and a representative can tell you your flight status and answer questions about delays.
  • Gate information typically appears 1 to 2 hours before departure; if you do not see a gate yet, check back closer to your flight time.
  • Tracking your flight before you leave home helps you spot delays early and decide whether to head to the airport on time or wait.

Using the United website to check your flight

Go to united.com and look for the "Flight Status" link, usually near the top of the page. Enter your confirmation code (the six-character code on your booking email) or your flight number (for example, UA 456). You can also enter your departure and arrival cities if you prefer.

The results page shows your scheduled departure time, current status, and estimated arrival time. If your flight is delayed, the page displays the new departure time and the reason when United has announced one. Scroll down to see whether your gate has been assigned yet.

Refresh the page every 15 to 30 minutes if your flight is delayed or if you are checking more than an hour before departure. The information updates in real time, but the page itself does not refresh automatically.

Using the United mobile app for automatic updates

read the United app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Open it, tap "Flight Status," and enter your confirmation code or flight number the same way you would on the website.

Once you pull up your flight, tap the option to receive notifications (usually a bell icon or a "Get Alerts" button). The app will then send you a push notification whenever your gate changes, your departure time shifts, or your flight status updates. You do not have to open the app to see these alerts — they appear on your phone's home screen.

The app also shows your seat assignment, baggage information, and boarding group if you have checked in. If you have a layover, the app tracks both legs of your journey and notifies you of changes to either flight.

Calling United to speak with a representative

Call 1-800-UNITED-1 (1-800-864-8331) to reach United customer service. Have your confirmation code or flight number ready. A representative can tell you your flight status, answer questions about delays, and help you rebook if your flight is cancelled.

Wait times vary depending on the time of day and how many flights are delayed. Early morning and evening are typically busier. If you are calling about a delay or cancellation, calling sooner rather than later can help you find a seat on an alternative flight before they fill up.

What to do if your flight is delayed

Once you see a delay on the tracking page, check the reason if United has posted one. Weather, mechanical issues, and air traffic control delays are common causes and may affect multiple airlines, not just United.

If the delay is more than a few hours, contact United through the website, app, or phone to ask about your options. You may be able to rebook on an earlier flight to the same destination, or on a different airline if United cannot get you there that day. United does not automatically rebook you — you have to request it.

If you are at the airport, go to the United ticket counter or gate agent. If you are at home, use the app or website to message United, or call the number above. Keep your confirmation code handy for any conversation.

Understanding gate and boarding information

Your gate typically appears 1 to 2 hours before departure. If you do not see a gate listed when you check 3 hours early, that is normal — check again an hour before your flight. Gates sometimes change, especially if a flight is delayed or if the airport reassigns gates due to traffic.

Boarding groups appear after you check in, either online or at the airport. United uses groups like Group 1, Group 2, and so on, plus Premier members and first-class passengers who board first. The tracking page shows your group once you have checked in.

If your gate changes after it has been announced, the app will notify you. If you are at the airport, look at the airport's own flight information displays as well — sometimes those update faster than the airline's system.

Tracking connections and layovers

If you have a connecting flight, the United app and website show both legs of your trip. Each flight has its own status, gate, and boarding information. The app tracks delays on both flights and notifies you if your connection is at risk.

If your first flight is delayed and you are worried about missing your connection, contact United as soon as you see the delay. If the delay is long enough that you will miss your next flight, United will rebook you automatically on the next available flight. If the delay is shorter, ask a gate agent or call United to confirm you have enough time to make your connection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a ticket number to track my United flight?

No. Your confirmation code (the six-character code from your booking email) or your flight number is enough. You do not need your ticket number or booking reference to check your flight status on the website or app.

How often does the flight status update?

The website and app update every few minutes. If you are checking on a delay, refresh every 15 to 30 minutes to see the latest information. The app sends notifications automatically, so you do not have to keep checking manually.

Can I track my flight if I booked through a travel website like Expedia?

Yes. Use your confirmation code from the travel website to track on united.com or the United app. The confirmation code works the same way whether you booked directly with United or through a third party.

What if my flight is cancelled?

The cancellation will appear on the tracking page. Call United at 1-800-864-8331 or use the app to rebook on the next available flight to your destination. If no flights are available that day, United will rebook you on the next day or offer a refund.

Will the app work if I do not have cell service at the airport?

The app needs internet to pull live updates, but you can use airport WiFi. If you do not have WiFi access, the website version on a mobile browser works the same way. Alternatively, ask a gate agent for your current status.