Two New Jersey residents have filed a class-action lawsuit in federal court accusing United Airlines of deceptive policies for frequent flyer redemption on hotel rooms and car rentals.

The lawsuit, filed by Robert Gordon and Melissa Chan, alleges that United charges higher redemption prices to those with more miles.

The complaint describes an incident in August 2012. Looking to book a three-night hotel stay in Japan, Gordon first attempted to book a room with his MileagePlus account. He was quoted 40,750 miles, more than in his account. When Chan, who had 41,733 miles, attempted to book she was charged 44,500 miles.

The lawsuit claims that United was deceptive in not disclosing this alleged practice. However, on the United website, you can see clearly stated that “Certain Members may receive preferential pricing. Pricing is subject to change without notice.”

It’s unclear how higher prices are, in fact, considered preferential.
United Director of Public Relations Rahsaan Johnson shared following statement with PeterGreenberg.com:

“United offers MileagePlus members a broad range of benefits. As we communicate clearly in our program rules, we reserve some benefits, including access to complimentary extra-legroom seating, first-class upgrades and preferential pricing on some awards, for our most frequent customers. This suit is without merit both factually and legally and we look forward to defending ourselves vigorously.”

Further investigation shows Gordon and Chan’s relationship extends beyond the lawsuit. The Knot has listed to their wedding for November 29, 2014. Per their wedding website, the couple, “met on Okcupid.com during Spring break of their second year at their respective law schools.”

By Lily J. Kosner for PeterGreenberg.com