United Airlines and Aer Lingus will halt their codeshare operations at the end of this week, but their frequent flier partnership remains intact.
Loyalty
Delta softens the blow for Medallion, SkyClub changes
As promised by CEO Ed Bastian, Delta is adjusting the SkyMiles and SkyClub changes it announced just four weeks ago. The revised rules lower the spend requirements and boost long-term loyalty value, among other updates.
Southwest bucks the trend, eases elite status earning in Rapid Rewards
It is easy to read too much into small changes in airline loyalty programs. But this week’s announcement from Southwest Airlines – lowering the qualification requirements for some elite status tiers – could signal a significant shift for the carrier’s approach to frequent fliers.
JetBlue adds IHG partnership, adjusts upgrades for 2024 Mosaic program
Frequent fliers (or big credit card spenders) in JetBlue’s TrueBlue loyalty program will see a few key upgrades in their Mosaic elite status next year, including upgrades, hotels, and rental cars.
Consumers really do pay to be loyal, and that’s good for them
Not only are customers who buy an elite status match good for airline and hotel loyalty programs, they’re likely more profitable by many metrics than those who the programs previously attracted through free match or challenge programs.
Delta’s SkyMiles shakeup hits Medallion status, SkyClub access rules
Is the updated Delta SkyMiles program actually a simplified scheme for earning status? That’s debatable. But at least the company didn’t call it enhanced this time.
British Airways switches to revenue-based accrual for Avios
British Airways passengers will earn Avios based on how much money they spend, not how far they fly, starting later this year. The carrier is the latest to switch to a revenue-based accrual method for its loyalty program.
American Airlines raises rates, supplements services for Admirals Clubs
Passengers looking to escape the terminal in an American Airlines Admirals Club lounge will soon be asked to pay a bit more for the privilege, though the carrier is also adding some amenities inside to help soften the blow.
Norwegian, Strawberry link for loyalty reboot
Can a hotel and airline deliver value through a joint loyalty offering? Norwegian and Strawberry are about to find out as the pair team for a reboot of their offerings.
Singapore Airlines to make Wi-Fi free on board
Singapore Airlines is the latest carrier to bring complimentary inflight Wi-Fi to all passengers on board. The carrier will expand its current offering – limited to 2 hours for passengers in economy class – to allow for access throughout the flight from July 2023.