Atmos Status Earning vs United MileagePlus PQP
A focused comparison on the status-earning mechanics: how each program turns flying and spending into elite credit, and which is more flexible.
Side-by-side
| Attribute | Atmos Rewards | United MileagePlus |
|---|---|---|
| Status currency | Status points | PQPs (revenue-based) + PQF (segments) |
| Distance-based earning | Yes (current default; option later 2026) | No |
| Revenue-based earning | Optional later 2026 (5 SP per $1) | Default (PQPs ≈ revenue × multiplier) |
| Card status earning | Yes — Summit, Ascent, Business, HWE | Yes — most Chase United cards earn PQPs |
Atmos's flexibility advantage
Once choice-based earning launches later in 2026, Atmos is the only U.S. major airline letting members pick from three earning methods. United's PQP system is purely revenue-driven — your dollars in determine your status credit out.
Verdict
For travelers who book discount fares, fly long-haul, or take many short segments, Atmos's flexible earning system is meaningfully better than United's revenue-only PQP model.
Frequently asked questions
Does Atmos earn status the same way United does?
No. United is revenue-only (PQPs). Atmos currently uses distance-based earning by default and will offer a choice of distance, revenue, or segments later in 2026.