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United Enhances ConnectionSaver: App Upgrades Transform Layovers

  • Writer: Sam Truett
    Sam Truett
  • Jun 29
  • 2 min read

Travelers you’ll want to know about United Airlines’ latest tech upgrade. With summer travel in full swing, the airline has supercharged its ConnectionSaver—a smart system designed to help you make tight flight connections without stress. Here's everything you need to know:


United Airlines plane taking off against a cloudy sky, with the airline's logo visible on the fuselage and tail.
A United Airlines jet ascends into the cloudy sky.

What Is ConnectionSaver?

First introduced in 2019, ConnectionSaver is an AI-powered tool that flags tight layovers and, when possible, holds connecting flights for passengers who are running late—without disrupting the schedule of other travelers.

Since its debut, ConnectionSaver has helped more than 3.3 million flyers successfully make their connections 


The New App Features

United’s latest update brings these enhancements to its mobile app at major U.S. hubs:

  • Connection dashboard: Shows upcoming flights and statuses in real time.

  • Notifications if a flight is being held for you: Adds confidence during boarding rushes.

  • Turn-by-turn gate directions & walk-time estimates: Navigate terminals with ease.

  • Countdown timers & layover tips: Plan meals, lounges, or shopping accordingly.

  • Self-rebooking tools: Missed a connection? Rebook or join standby directly in-app.

Beta testing earlier this year included 350,000 passengers, with an impressive 98% success in making their connections.


Busy airport terminal with travelers walking, carrying luggage. Signs for gates and exits. Bright lighting and blue, green accents.
Passengers bustling through a busy airport terminal, surrounded by signs directing them to gates, baggage claim, and transportation options.

Where It Works Today

These new features are active at United’s major U.S. hubs: Chicago (ORD), Denver (DEN), Houston Bush (IAH), Los Angeles (LAX), Newark (EWR), San Francisco (SFO), and Washington Dulles (IAD).

Soon, live location tracking inside terminals will help guide you like a personal GPS—no more guessing which way to go.


Why It Matters for You

These updates put travelers back in control:

  • Less stress knowing your flight might wait

  • Easier navigation with directions and countdowns

  • Quick recovery with self-rebooking tools

  • More transparency around status and timing

As United’s CCO David Kinzelman put it, delivering information “in a transparent and easy-to-understand way” will help “de-stress the connecting flight experience”.


Final Take

With rising passenger numbers and crowded airports, small improvements can have a big impact. United’s upgraded ConnectionSaver now delivers a smarter, more confident connecting experience—putting essential info right in your pocket.

Whether you're a frequent flyer or connecting for the first time—these tools could make all the difference in a busy summer travel season.

What Do You Think?

Have you used ConnectionSaver or tried the new app features? Did your flight wait for you? Tell us your experience—or what you’d still love to see—in the comments!



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