United To Launch Premium RJ Service
United Airlines this week planned to announce a new inflight premium service brand for its United Express network. Dubbed ExPlus, the program guarantees that all United flights from Chicago O'Hare longer than two-and-a-half hours and not handled by full-size mainline or Ted aircraft would use larger regional jets furnished with three classes of service. Both 70-seat Embraer 170 and 66-seat Canadair RJ-700 aircraft will be used and configured with first, Economy Plus and economy seating. The aircraft deployed on affected routes also include snack boxes for first class customers, large overhead bins and full-sized leather seats. "The resounding feedback from customer research and from our major corporate accounts is that when you deploy a 50-seat regional jet for flights longer than three hours, tolerance falls pretty quickly," said Sean Donohue, vice president of United Express, Ted and operational services. He suggested that United's larger regional jets provide a competitive advantage, and that "the clear message is that travelers would change their buying behavior." The ExPlus service already is available between O'Hare and six cities, as well as on flights in select other markets. In the coming months, United will add more markets to the program, with a goal of including one-third of all United Express aircraft by year-end. By mid-2006, more than 100 regional jets would be included in the program, operating from all of United's major hubs. Meanwhile, United this month introduced Economy Plus Access, a program that provides members with roomier Economy Plus seating whenever they book flights, based on availability. The program is open to frequent flyers and customers booking full economy fares. Ranging up to $749 per year, program variations include access to United's airport clubs and options to more quickly achieve elite level frequent flyer status.
Midwest Air Introduces Small Biz Rewards
Midwest Airlines this week will unveil a new incentive program targeted for small and medium-size business customers. Those companies annually spending up to $100,000 on the Milwaukee-based carrier will earn points for each $1,000 of flown revenue. Points will be redeemable for free flights, upgraded frequent flyer status, airport lounge access and other benefits. The Best Care Business program also will enable companies to redeem points for such ticket waivers as name changes. "Having more utility on tickets purchased—like name changes without a stiff fee—is something that came up repeatedly in our research," said Randy Smith, Midwest vice president of sales and distribution. "We found a reasonable way to make that opportunity available." The program will track all account revenue, including bookings made online through the Midwest Airlines corporate portal, which the carrier expects to activate in the coming months. Midwest now is enrolling companies and said all purchases will count toward point accrual as of Sept. 1.