Buried in a release about an expansion of codeshare routes between JetBlue and Qatar Airways is news that the pair will also establish recipocity for frequent flyer points earning and redemption. Details are scarce, but any growth on that front should be welcome for TrueBlue program members.
Loyalty
Aeroplan extends elite status through 2022
With a quarter of the year gone recovery of the Canadian aviation sector remains a long way away. Air Canada acknowledged this, choosing to extend elite status in the company’s Aeroplan frequent flyer program another year.
Alaska Airlines giving away 25,000 flights to new MileagePlan members
Alaska Airlines wants to expand its frequent flyer base in California, and free flights are on offer. The company will give away up to 25,000 round trip flights to California residents that joins the loyalty program this week.
Air Canada, Transat merger approved, with notable conditions attached
Air Canada and Air Transat received approval from the Canadian government this week to close on their merger, though not without some additional conditions covering slots, loyalty, lounges, and Quebec employment guarantees.
Norwegian halts most CashPoints loyalty during restructuring
The Norwegian CashPoints loyalty program is taking a break. As the carrier moves through the bankruptcy protection and reorganization processes in Ireland and Norway the bulk of the programs benefits will be removed.
Spirit Airlines new Free Spirit loyalty program now live
The new Free Spirit program is now live. And with it comes some change in the company’s approach to airline loyalty.
Elite status – including Companion Pass – easier in 2021 for Southwest Rapid Rewards members
Gaining elite status in the Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards program will be a little easier in 2021. The company announced a boost for all members and adjustments to some partner qualifying activities.
Aeroplan adds Virgin Australia as earn/burn partner
Members of the Air Canada Aeroplan loyalty program have a new option to expand their travels into Australia. The carrier announced that Virgin Australia will be a partner for both earning and redemption of frequent flyer points as of 19 January 2021.
JetBlue adds Companion Pass for 2021, lowers Mosaic qualification requirements
Elite status will be a bit easier and better in the JetBlue TrueBlue program next year. The carrier announced changes to the Mosaic status tier on Wednesday, including lower travel and spend requirements to qualify and a BOGO travel option in the first several months of the year.
Air Canada adds WiFi payment via Aeroplan points
Air Canada passengers have a new option to buy in-flight WiFi service. The carrier now offers the ability to pay with Aeroplan points on board.