American Airlines and Citi are finally going exclusive. After years of a multi-party cobrand credit card relationship Barclays will be pushed out as part of a new, 10-year deal for American.
frequent flyer
First Class, Companion Pass coming to Frontier
Frontier Airlines will launch a first class cabin in late 2025 as it continues in its efforts to reinvent itself and remain competitive in a market where premium services deliver outsized revenue.
Paid premium massively displaced upgrades, exactly how Delta wants it to be
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.
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.