Why would an airline alliance launch a loyalty credit card? The obvious answer is money. Co-brand credit cards are massive drivers of revenue for airlines. But historically that has applied at the airline level, not at the alliance level. Star Alliance will change that later this year when the group launches its own card.
Loyalty
airBaltic boosts NFT loyalty play
Perhaps no airline sees itself as an innovator more than airBaltic.
The company’s latest move – to issue 10,000 more NFTs tied to its loyalty program – raises questions about whether the airline is innovative or simply chasing a shiny buzzword.
RIP E500s: American retires short-haul upgrade credits
American Airlines is killing off AAdvantage 500-mile upgrade credits. Effective from Wednesday, March 2, 2022, all elites will have access to unlimited upgrades.
Qatar Airways pick Avios for loyalty future
Qatar Airways will join the Avios loyalty family next month. The carrier announced its Privilege Club loyalty program will transition from Qmiles to Avios as the currency of record from March 2022.
Frontier, Spirit announce plans to merge
Frontier Airlines and Sprit Airlines intend to merge, creating a new 5th largest airline in the US.
JetBlue adds Mosaic+, free upgrades for 2022 elites
JetBlue will make its TrueBlue Mosaic elite status more rewarding in 2022. Upgrades are coming for members, including an option for highly coveted Mint upgrades as part of a newly established Mosaic+ tier of the program.
United snags Virgin Australia as a partner, displacing Delta
Virgin Australia and United Airlines secured a new partnership for connections between the United States and Australia. The deal, effective from April 2022, sees Delta Air Lines drop from the role it held over the past decade.
ITA Airways joins SkyTeam, replacing Alitalia
SkyTeam officially welcomes ITA Airways as a member airline today. The Alitalia replacement joins the alliance two weeks after launching flights and a new loyalty program for customers.
Qantas boosts rebound, points opportunities with Australia border reopening
Australia is reopening its borders, and Qantas is ready to take advantage of the pent up demand for travel. The airline will accelerate the return of many international routes, as well as larger aircraft, to support consumer demand. It is also adding a frequent flyer twist, with several “points planes” loaded for travelers.
American buys into GOL, plans loyalty, codeshare boost
American Airlines will invest $200 million for a 5.2% stake in Brazil’s GOL as part of an expanded commercial partnership. The deal will see the two tie more closely in each other’s primary market, and significantly boost their loyalty program integration as well.