Frequent flyers at two of the world’s largest airlines received a reprieve over the weekend. Delta Air Lines and United Airlines announced major changes to their loyalty program, extended previously earned elite status and other benefits. The moves are dramatic, affecting millions of program members. [A]s coronavirus continues to dramatically impact travel across the globe, […]
United Airlines
Who wants what? How the US airlines are responding with CARES Act funding on the line
With tens of billions of dollars in federal funding on the line the DOT’s rules about service obligations under the CARES Act could dramatically affect airlines’ cash flow in the coming months. The divide in views between the large and small players is impressively wide.
US airlines cut deep, but not deep enough
With loads teetering against the single digits the US carriers must cut deeper to rationalize their operations. And there are few good justifications for not making that move.
US carriers cut frequencies, not destinations as they seek federal funding
Getting that federal bailout cash means keeping all existing destinations in service for the US airlines. That could prove troubling for some as the cutbacks are already in motion.
Converting to cargo: Putting passenger planes to use in the COVID-19 era
Passenger demand may not exist right now for airlines but global supply chains still demand the cargo capacity those aircraft represent. Passenger aircraft are being pressed into service as freighters, filling their belly space with goods to fly across the globe. And, in some cases, even a bit more.
Emirates, Turkish Airlines slash route networks, ground aircraft
Two more large airlines announced major cuts to their route networks this weekend. Emirates will suspend all passenger service while Turkish Airlines will cut nearly all its international destinations.
Airport lounges shutter as airlines slash capacity
The lounges are closing. Not every airline and not every location, but for the trickle of passengers still flying opportunities to duck into a private space in the terminal for a bit are starting to disappear.
Trans States Airlines: The first US airline victim of COVID-19
Trans States Airlines will halt operations on 1 April 2020. The carrier, which provides regional jet capacity to United Airlines, will halt operations as the parent carrier slashes flights in response to cratering demand tied to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Beyond route cuts, airlines initiate extended suspension of operations
A week ago this level of cuts to airline route networks seemed beyond the pale. Now, it appears to be just the start.
United brings in-seat IFE back to the high density 777s
United Airlines is bringing a new version of its highest capacity aircraft to the skies with a notable improvement for economy class passengers: in-seat entertainment screens. And how the company pulled it off is an interesting recycling lesson.