United Airlines giving away a year of free travel to vaccinated people only

The competition is part of a major campaign to encourage vaccination.
The competition is part of a major campaign to encourage vaccination. Photo credit: United Airlines

United Airlines has launched a competition giving away a year of free travel, but there is a catch: only fully vaccinated people may enter.

The 'Your Shot to Fly' promotion is part of a nationwide campaign by the US government to get as many Americans vaccinated as possible.

To enter, vaccinated members of the airline's frequent flyer programme MileagePlus can upload their vaccination records directly through the app.

United will give away 30 pairs of tickets throughout the month of June, and five randomly selected members will win free travel for a year for themselves and a travel buddy.

The prize covers travel in any class to and from anywhere on the United network - it's hard to imagine the winner picking economy.

"Thanks to the vaccine, more and more destinations are opening up for travel - and we know our customers are eager to fly. We're excited to give people one more reason to get vaccinated so they can reunite with friends and family or take that long-awaited vacation which could be just one shot away," United CEO Scott Kirby said.

Pre-COVID-19, United was operating flights to every continent except Antarctica, so whoever wins will be spoiled for choice when choosing a year's worth of destinations.