So much happening at the World Aviation Festival this year but a few bits stood out above the rest for direct impact on passengers. Here are a few of the highlights from Air Canada, TAP Portugal, EasyJet and more.
loyalty
New challengers at every level: PaxEx Update 2019-08-30
New cabins on the horizon for economy and business class, short-haul and long; might travel get more comfortable rather than less? Plus some good news for travelers looking to get online in the sky or earn free travel with their points.
American brings priority handling, NDC booking to corporate customers
How can an airline boost its corporate travel share? American Airlines trotted out a set of benefits this week that is comparable to some elite status or co-brand credit card perks, hoping to convert more potential customers into real elites with those CCs.
JetBlue eyes a more mature TrueBlue loyalty program
The co-brand revenue is great and JetBlue intends to continue expanding that stream. But the carrier also knows its TureBlue loyalty program needs a little more to become a mature offering for consumers. That should be good news for travelers, assuming the carrier can execute.
PaxEx Update: 2 August 2019
A new A321LR enters service for Aer Lingus, faster security screening for United and promises of faster infilght WiFi. Plus Hulu takes flight on Delta and more! Get all the details in this week’s PaxEx Update.
United Airlines partners with CLEAR, expands at hubs
United Airlines announced a partnership with CLEAR this week, expanding its participation in the biometric security screening program. The carrier will make a strategic investment in the company, including the addition or expansion of CLEAR locations at the carrier’s US hub airports.
Teasing the Jet Privilege value to investors
Loyalty programs are a profit machine for airlines, but they depend on the airline as well. Can Jet Privilege continue to deliver? Or is that a delusional dream??
American Airlines, Qantas receive antitrust immunity
The US Department of Transportation issued its final approval for antitrust immunity (ATI) of the American Airlines-Qantas joint business agreement on Friday afternoon. Expect to see new routes, fares and other cooperative efforts within the next six months.
Delta’s upgrade efforts continues to spread
Delta Air Lines is selling more upgrades than ever, which is both good news and bad news for the SkyMiles loyalty program. But probably more good than bad.
Thai Smile to join Star Alliance as connecting partner
Chalk up another partner for the Star Alliance program as Thai Smile signs on. Can this move help push other Star LCC affiliates into the fold?