United Airlines launched a new mobile app feature on September 1, 2026, allowing travelers with delayed flights to manually place themselves on standby for up to three earlier flights than the automated system selects. ^[1] United Airlines forecasts 3.4 million travelers will fly during the Labor Day weekend in 2026. ^[2] United Airlines' ConnectionSaver AI algorithm is designed to analyze if a departing connection can be safely held for a flyer if their initial leg is delayed, without automatically canceling the seat until it is physically impossible to board. ^[3] The new feature could make it harder for non-revenue staff travelers to snag seats at the last minute because full-fare passengers can now switch to flights they previously missed. ^[4] The new feature enables passengers to retain their confirmed seat on a fourth flight while monitoring availability on up to three earlier flights. ^[5] The new tool is intended to address customer backlash against American Airlines' AI-powered AURA system, which has faced criticism for incorrectly canceling connecting flights and leaving travelers on extended layovers. ^[6] Schwierzke stated that the feature reflects the airline's commitment to making travel more seamless and less stressful for customers. ^[7]