This Chicago to London route normally prices at around 60,000 MileagePlus miles in economy, so 40,000 miles represents solid value for families or solo travelers looking to get across the Atlantic next spring. The low $6 tax figure is also notable—transatlantic awards can sometimes carry higher surcharges depending on the carrier.

Availability appears to be wide open for April 4, 2026, which gives you flexibility if you're working around school schedules or trying to coordinate a larger group booking. Spring is a pleasant time to visit London, with milder weather and fewer crowds than the summer peak season.

One practical note: award pricing on United can fluctuate based on demand, so if this rate fits your plans, it's worth locking it in sooner rather than later. United does allow free changes and cancellations on most award tickets up to close-in, which provides some peace of mind if your plans shift.

How to book

Search for award availability and book directly through United at united.com/en/us/book-flight/united-awards/search.