United Airlines will match all donations up to 500,000 miles through its Miles on a Missioncampaign. The Chicago-based carrier made the announcement this week as part of the Giving Tuesday Now initiative. It hopes to help charities that rely on travel during the global health crisis.

United Airlines Aircraft
United is eager to help vulnerable groups amid the sensitive global climate. Photo: United Airlines

What's the plan?

Miles on a Mission allows passengers to donate miles to one of United's partner charities or a campaign created by an institution to raise miles for a trip. According to a press release, the operator is now expanding its efforts even further through its crowdsourcing platform.

United shared that some of the groups that will be helped through the campaign are as follows:

  • Fayette Cares- an institution that needs miles to get domestic violence victims to safe locations.
  • COSIG, Inc. - an organization that brings homeless veterans and those with disabilities to Virginia for housing and career training opportunities.
  • Combined Arms- a veteran-focused group that provides transport for those who want to volunteer.
  • Project HOPE - a health charity that uses miles to deliver PPE and medical equipment to health workers and underserviced communities.
  • Rise Against Hunger- a hunger relief organization that needs miles for travel to countries in critical need for food distribution and vital aid.
United Airlines Livery
The United States is proud of its N designation. Photo: Getty Images

Crucial support

United vice president and chief community engagement officer Sharon Grant highlighted how crucial the ability to travel is for specific groups. Even during these uncertain times, several people still need to fly.

"In this time of crisis, essential travel is critical for many like veterans, domestic violence victims and others needing to reunite with family or otherwise find shelter during COVID-19," said Grant, as per the press release.

"We are proud to provide a platform for organizations helping to meet this need and match donations our members contribute to these critical causes."

United hand sanitizer
United has been putting extra measures in place over the last few weeks. Photo: United Airlines

Wider efforts

Altogether, despite having its operations rocked, United has been putting its resources to great use during the current situation. Along with its extensive repatriation and cargo efforts, the airline has been transforming several of its sites to help tackle the virus outbreak.

It has started to produce hand sanitizer at its San Francisco facility, and one of its cargo sites in Houston is doubling up as a food distribution center. Moreover, the firm recently announced a series of enhanced hygiene measures being introduced on its services.

Ultimately, United is continuing to keep active during the downturn in passenger activity. The support raised by campaigns such as Miles on a Mission will go a long way for several members of the public that are in need.

What are your thoughts on this campaign that United is promoting? Do you see it helping during this tough period? Let us know what you think in the comment section.