It is no secret that US airline loyalty programs drive the bulk of their profits from co-brand credit card relationships. And with Delta Air Lines’ latest decision to remove a key SkyTeam benefit from its members, the program’s transition to a credit card loyalty offering is arguably complete.
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Can inflight Wi-Fi ever be profitable?
Airlines should not expect their inflight connectivity solutions to be profitable. At least not directly so. And Air Canada seems OK with that situation, finding other ways to justify the proposition.
Aeroplan, Avis partner for status match, with a co-brand twist
Air Canada’s Aeroplan elite status holders can now request a complimentary status upgrade in the Avis Preferred® program, extending the value of the status earned to rental cars as well. The status match program is effective immediately and members can register here.
Star Alliance credit card coming this fall
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.
Allegiant revamps loyalty with Allways Rewards
A new loyalty program is coming soon for Allegiant Airlines. The ultra low cost carrier wants to enhance and expand its appeal to repeat customers, while also delivering a simple and relatable offering, dubbed “Allways Rewards.”
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.
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.
Aeroplan to add US credit card, Chase Ultimate Rewards
The new Air Canada Aeroplan program has some great sweet spots, but for non-Canadian members the earning options weren’t great. A new partnership with Chase announced today changes all that. Eventually.
A brand new FreeSpirit loyalty program launches
It is time for the Spirit Airlines loyalty program to grow up. And the new version launching today appears to be far more rewarding, or at least it holds that potential.