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.
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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.
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.
Frontier selling status to anyone with a co-brand credit card
For years co-branded credit cards represented status-lite options for consumers. Now Frontier Airlines is making it more of a real status option.
JetBlue revamps TrueBlue Mosaic elite status program
JetBlue is very much not the same airline it was a decade ago when the its Mosaic program launched. And now the elite status portion of the company’s TrueBlue loyalty program will change, reflecting the carrier’s evolution as well as shifts in the overall airline loyalty market.
Avelo takes a different tack with a Capital One not quite cobrand credit card partnership
How can a small airline with no loyalty program to speak of take advantage of the booming co-brand credit card market? Avelo and Capital One appear to have a solution.
Star Alliance, HSBC launch an Australian credit card
The new Star Alliance credit card, first teased in May of this year, is now live in Australia. Launched in partnership with HSBC, the first of its kind co-brand credit card allows members to earn Star Alliance Points and elite status with seven partner airline loyalty programs.
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.