Fifteen years ago Delta Air Lines sold just 6% of its domestic first class seats. Today that number is 75%, and the carrier has plans to keep the paid share high, while still keeping the loyalty program relevant.
frequent flyer
Alaska Airlines adds local benefits in Hawai’i
Alaska Airlines has a strong history of benefits for locals in its namesake state. Now that’s extending to Hawai’i with the new Huaka‘i by Hawaiian offering.
Virgin Atlantic teases eventual free Wi-Fi on board
Virgin Atlantic CEO Shai Weiss is keen to see free Wi-Fi on board his company’s planes, assuming its providers can catch up.
Emirates launches UAE co-brand cards with many benefits, even more fine print
Emirates is making moves in the cobrand credit card space, adding a new option for UAE residents. The two new cards, issued by HSBC, offer an interesting collection of benefits and a LOT of fine print.
Air France taps Starlink for IFC update
Air France is all-in on Starlink. The carrier confirmed today it will the LEO satellite internet service on board from 2025.
More (paid) legroom, bags still fly free: Southwest details transformation program
Bags will continue to fly free on Southwest Airlines, even as the company moves to offer a paid extra legroom option on board its planes from 2026.
JetBlue launches lounges in premium push
JetBlue spent the better part of the past decade arguing its on-board premium experience was so good it made travelers forget about the lack of a lounge on the ground. That changes late next year.
Alaska Airlines receives DOT approval for Hawaiian acquisition
The US DOT approved Alaska Airlines’ acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines while establishing a six year compliance program mandating capacity levels and frequent flyer program value.
Southwest gets aggressive with Rapid Rewards status promotion
Southwest is pushing hard to boost its bookings in the next few months, with a major Rapid Rewards promotion across multiple pathways, including flights, credit card spend, and other partners.
Winding Tree winds down, bailing on Blockchain for airlines
For years Winding Tree pitched itself as delivering a distribution and payments blockchain revolution for airlines, hotels, and consumers. Today that dream is dead.