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JetBlue and United Loyalty Members Can Now Earn and Redeem Across Both Airlines
TrueBlue® members can access United’s global network, including United Express®, while MileagePlus® members can earn and redeem miles on flights across JetBlue’s network of top leisure destinations. JetBlue and United Airlines launched the first major customer benefit from their Blue Sky collaboration: loyalty members of both airlines can now earn and redeem points or miles across each other’s networks. This milestone delivers JetBlue and United’s shared vision to create a more rewarding travel experience by giving customers greater flexibility and choice when booking flights with their loyalty currency of choice. Loyalty Earn and Redeem Across Both Airlines Effective today: TrueBlue members can earn points and redeem them for flights across United’s global network, including United Express. MileagePlus members can earn and redeem miles on most flights across JetBlue’s network of top leisure destinations.1 When searching for flights with points or miles on JetBlue or United’s websites and mobile apps, customers will now see flight options across both airlines’ networks—making it easier than ever to turn everyday travel into meaningful rewards. To earn miles, points and tiles, TrueBlue members can enter their loyalty number when booking United-operated flights on United.com. Similarly, United MileagePlus members can enter theirs when booking JetBlue-operated flights on JetBlue.com. To redeem points or miles, members should continue booking award travel directly through their respective airline’s website, selecting the option to search with points or miles.2 “With reciprocal earning and redemption now available, Blue Sky is officially taking flight,” the airlines said in a joint statement. “We’re excited to give our loyalty members the ability to use the program of their choice when traveling across our complementary networks.” Still to Come from Blue Sky The airlines emphasized that this is just the beginning of their collaboration. Additional customer benefits will continue rolling out in phases, including: Revenue Booking – coming in the first quarter of 2026 – including the ability to book itineraries on either airline using cash or miles/points. Reciprocal perks and benefits – coming in early 2026 – such as priority boarding, preferred and extra legroom seating, and same-day standby and flight changes. United’s travel extras, MileagePlus Travel, to transition to Paisly, LLC – coming in early 2026 – United’s MileagePlus Travel with expanded options for hotels, rental cars, cruises, packages and travel insurance will be powered by JetBlue’s wholly owned travel product company, Paisly. JetBlue’s support for United’s JFK expansion – with access to slots for up to seven daily roundtrips from JFK's new Terminal 6 beginning as early as 2027. Through these initiatives, Blue Sky aims to create more rewarding, connected and streamlined travel experiences for customers while opening new avenues for growth for both airlines.
Rocket Travel by Agoda releases its latest report: The Loyalty Value Playbook
A new report co-developed by Skift and Rocket Travel by Agoda points out that many loyalty programmes face a widening value gap between what members want and what brands deliver. Titled The Loyalty Value Playbook: Redemption Experience and Cash Spend as the New Benchmarks for Customer Growth, the report takes note of the rapid evolution of customer expectations and how the world’s perception of traditional loyalty models is also changing at a rapid clip. The Playbook likewise offers a practical blueprint to close the aforementioned loyalty gap. With 77 percent of consumers now quicker to drop a program than they were three years ago, this underscores how consumers are increasingly prioritizing loyalty on platforms that deliver value through clarity, flexibility, and relevance throughout the customer journey. Why now? Rocket Travel By Agoda developed the guide to help companies understand why traditional loyalty programs may need to evolve to meet modern guest expectations, risking lost revenue for brands. For instance, according to Antavo’s Global Customer Loyalty Report, only around 50 percent of loyalty points earned are redeemed, while in a report by Cordial, 43 percent of customers stopped participating because the rewards took too long to earn. Grounded in original research, case studies, and expert interviews, the playbook shows how well-crafted loyalty programs drive repeat bookings and cash spend, strengthening guest relationships. By leveraging zero-friction experiences and AI-driven personalization, it empowers travel brands spanning airlines, hotels, and beyond to meet the demands of modern travelers, in line with Agoda’s commitment to making travel more accessible and rewarding. As Rocket Travel head Damien Pfirsch puts it: "The challenge and opportunity for loyalty programs is that expectations haven’t shifted from one set of benefits to another, they have expanded. Travelers still want the traditional perks, but they also expect more, making loyalty harder to manage. This report equips travel brands with a playbook to rebuild guest trust through clear, flexible, and relevant loyalty experiences, boosting both point redemptions and cash bookings." A relevant guide In line with the report’s release, Rocket Travel by Agoda also launched a guide to help companies transform failing loyalty programs based on clear metrics. The guide includes six capabilities that focus on getting the most out of loyalty programs by focusing on best practices in redemption, usability, transparency, and exclusivity. Relevant measures include: Data and Personalisation Engine: Harness guest behavior and AI-driven insights to deliver tailored recommendations, increasing redemption value and booking conversions. Partner and Inventory Strategy: Expand high-quality room and experience inventory with competitive pricing and exclusive perks like early check-in or late checkout. Marketing Technology and Customer Journeys: Minimize point breakage with lifecycle messaging and clear value explanations to spur repeat cash bookings. Governance and Controls: Enforce fair dynamic pricing with transparent rules and advance notices to sustain guest trust and reduce complaints. Cross-Functional Ways of Working: Unite loyalty, operations, and data teams to optimize metrics like repeat cash bookings and guest lifetime value.
Thai Airways chooses IBS Software’s iLoyal to modernise its Royal Orchid Plus loyalty programme
SaaS solutions provider to the travel sector IBS Software announced that its iLoyal platform has been chosen by Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) to digitally transform and modernise its Royal Orchid Plus Programme. IBS Software’s head of loyalty solutions Marcus Puffer cited how Thai Airways understands the power of loyalty in driving meaningful customer relationships. He said: “With iLoyal, we will help future-proof Royal Orchid Plus, enabling Thai Airways to deliver the digital-first experiences today’s travellers expect.” IBS’ region head in the Asia Pacific Gautam Shekar added: "As loyalty expectations evolve across the APAC region, Thai Airways’ selection of IBS Software reflects our commitment to helping airlines transform into digital retailers. Thai Airways is an iconic carrier, and we are proud to support their journey of innovation.” THAI’s chief commercial officer Kittiphong Sansomboon likewise remarked: “Strengthening our loyalty programme is a key priority. This investment marks a significant milestone in our digital transformation journey, focusing on the programme’s “Power of Plus” - Plus Value Propositions, Plus Members, and Plus Revenue - to transform Royal Orchid Plus to be future-ready and to continue supporting THAI’s business growth” For a more personal experience At the heart of THAI’s digital transformation strategy is the deployment of IBS Software’s iLoyal platform, designed to deliver a more personalised, connected and rewarding experience for Royal Orchid Plus members. The platform will provide Thai Airways with a future-ready loyalty foundation, ensuring members benefit from seamless digital touchpoints across their travel journey. With its advanced AI and data-driven capabilities, iLoyal will enable Thai Airways to accelerate member engagement across the customer lifecycle, design targeted promotions and expand opportunities beyond traditional rewards programmes. The platform’s open architecture also supports integration with partners in banking, retail, hospitality, and lifestyle, enhancing the overall value of Royal Orchid Plus. The implementation of IBS Software’s iLoyal platform likewise reinforces the company’s leadership in airline loyalty solutions across the APAC region and reflects Thai Airways’ strategic focus on digital transformation to deliver next-generation customer experiences.
Philippine Airlines and Philippine National Bank to boost Mabuhay Miles loyalty programme
Philippine flag-carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) and the Philippine National Bank (PNB) formally renewed their partnership to strengthen the former’s Mabuhay Miles programme. The ceremonial signing was held last week at the Lucio K. Tan, Jr. Center in Pasay City, and its signatories included LT Group Inc and PAL Holdings Inc president and COO Lucio C Tan III, PAL president Richard Nuttall, and PNB president and CEO Edwin Bautista. Through this partnership, the parties involved will be able to offer enhanced travel and lifestyle benefits to cardholders and members. More perks for members Under the new agreement, PAL-PNB Mabuhay Miles credit, debit, and prepaid card holders can convert reward points into Mabuhay Miles, which can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and other exclusive travel privileges. Indeed, cardholders can discover more benefits as both companies expand their privileges for a more enjoyable travel experience for cardholders. Tan commended the collaborative efforts of the two companies to bring greater value to customers. He said: “This partnership celebrates the value our customers bring by ensuring their loyalty is rewarded in meaningful and exciting ways. When strong brands come together, the possibilities are endless. Together, we amplify our strengths and elevate the experiences we offer. This synergy not only enhances benefits for our customers but also sets new standards for innovation and excellence in the industry.” Nuttall likewise expressed his support for the renewal of the inter-company alliance. The airline president remarked: “The renewal of our partnership with PNB reflects our continuous pursuit to strengthen relationships that enhance the travel experience of our customers. Together, we are expanding opportunities for our passengers to enjoy the benefits of the Mabuhay Miles program on the ground and in the air.” For his part, Bautista conveyed his satisfaction with the continued partnership with the country’s flag carrier. According to the PNB chief executive: “This partnership goes beyond our logos. It’s about giving our customers experiences that truly matter whether they’re managing their finances or travelling the world.”
Riyadh Air Takes Flight: Saudi Arabia’s Newest Airline Soars to London on October 26 with Luxe Lounge, Loyalty Perks, and Global Ambitions
Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s newest national carrier, will take to the skies on October 26 with its maiden flight from Riyadh to London Heathrow, a landmark moment in the Kingdom’s aviation history and a key milestone under Vision 2030. The inaugural flight will operate aboard a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner named Jamila — meaning “beautiful” in Arabic — marking the official debut of the Public Investment Fund-owned airline. Talking about the London route, Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air said: “This isn’t just a launch; it’s a tangible realization of a vision to connect Saudi Arabia to the world. This rigorous flight programme allows us to fine-tune every detail, ensuring a seamless, reliable and world-class experience.” Douglas added that the new route will initially operate with select guests and employees before opening to the public once the airline’s next two aircraft are delivered. The second aircraft will serve Dubai, the next confirmed destination, with further routes to be revealed for winter 2025 and summer 2026. Riyadh Air introduced “Sfeer”, its new loyalty programme designed to redefine passenger engagement. Meaning “Ambassador” in Arabic, Sfeer lets members share points and benefits with friends and family — a first in the aviation industry. “With Sfeer, we’re creating much more than a loyalty programme; we’re building a digitally immersive lifestyle ecosystem,” Douglas said. Early sign-ups, called Founders, will receive priority booking, event invitations, complimentary Wi-Fi, and global partner perks. Members will also enjoy non-expiring points and future gamified challenges via the Riyadh Air app. Coinciding with its first flight, Riyadh Air has unveiled its premium airport experience — the “Hafawa Lounge” — at King Khalid International Airport. Spanning 2,000 sqm, the desert-inspired lounge welcomes up to 370 guests, offering private and communal seating, curated dining, and signature Saudi coffee. To reinforce its seamless travel vision, Riyadh Air announced several strategic partnerships. A collaboration with Saudia Airlines will enable passengers to earn and redeem points across both carriers, ensuring network synergy rather than competition. The airline also teamed up with Uber, integrating door-to-door transport into its travel ecosystem, and with Saudi wellness brand Kayanee, which will supply amenity kits and loungewear for premium cabins.
Oman Air and Qantas boost loyalty partnership via reciprocal frequent flyer accrual
Oman Air and Qantas usher in a major milestone for travellers between Oman and Australia with activation of reciprocal frequent flyer accrual between Oman Air’s Sindbad and the Qantas Frequent Flyer programme. This development builds on a redemption agreement already in place: since October 2024, Sindbad members have been able to redeem their Miles on flights with Qantas, with Qantas members able to access the same benefits on Oman Air’s network. Now, post Oman Air’s joining oneworld, Sindbad members can also earn Miles and Tier Credits when flying with Qantas, while Qantas members can earn Points and Status Credits when flying with Oman Air. This strengthened partnership not only delivers greater rewards and recognition for Sindbad and Qantas Frequent Flyer members but also supports the national tourism objectives by encouraging more visitors from Australia to include Oman in their travel plans. With seamless connectivity and a new digital stopover programme, the airline makes it easier and more appealing than ever for guests to experience Oman as part of their journey. The opening of a new chapter Oman Air’s head of partnerships and alliances Rohan Patell declared: “Today marks an exciting new chapter in our relationship with Qantas and for Oman Air’s presence in Australia.” The airline’s vice-president for loyalty, guest experience, and brand Renata Rached added: “By building on our existing redemption arrangement, we are delivering even greater value and a truly seamless loyalty experience for our members, while making journeys to and beyond Muscat even more appealing.” Kate Sherwood, head of Qantas Airline Loyalty, pointed out that Qantas Frequent Flyers already have access to tens of thousands of reward seats across the Oman Air network. Sherwood said: “We’ve seen strong demand from members since launching our partnership last year. Now, with the opportunity for members to earn Qantas Points and Status Credits, travel with Oman Air across Asia, Europe and the Middle East will be even more rewarding.”
Loganair launches Double Avios promotion for loyalty members
Loganair has announced a limited-time Double Avios offer for members of its Avios-based rewards programme, Loganair Loyalty. Customers booking between 14 and 19 August 2025 will earn twice the usual number of Avios points on eligible flights, for travel commencing from 14 August onwards. Avios points can be used to book return or one-way Loganair Loyalty Reward Flights. Currently serving over 1.5 million passengers annually across nearly 70 routes, Loganair plays a vital role in providing lifeline services to some of Scotland’s remote communities as well as connecting regional hubs such as Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Belfast, and Manchester, alongside its services from London Heathrow. To take advantage of the promotion, customers must be signed in to their Loganair Loyalty account at the time of booking. The offer applies exclusively to Loganair-operated flights booked through loganair.co.uk or the Loganair app during the promotional period. The promotion coincides with a year of network growth for Loganair, including the establishment of a new operational base at Southampton Airport. The base underpins the airline’s commitment to improving connectivity across the UK, with services linking Southampton to destinations in Scotland, Northern Ireland, and beyond. Luke Lovegrove, chief commercial officer at Loganair, said: “Double Avios provides a valuable opportunity for our customers to increase their Avios balance faster. With the announcement of new routes from our Southampton base earlier this year, we are continuing to broaden our network and provide more choice for travellers seeking to maximise their loyalty rewards.” Points can only be collected on Loganair-operated flights, and the deal excludes group bookings, interline and codeshare flights, as well as bookings on the Orkney Inter-Isle services. Full terms and conditions can be found on Loganair’s website. Earlier this year, Loganair was ranked second in the Which? annual customer survey of short-haul airlines, achieving a 72% customer score. The airline received a five-star rating for customer service and four stars for booking, boarding, and cleanliness. Customers flying with Loganair benefit from a 21kg luggage allowance as standard and convenient connections to the wider UK through the airline’s growing network and partner carriers.
AirAsia launches ‘Turn Your Points into School Holiday Fun!’
School holidays just got a whole lot more rewarding! AirAsia rewards and PETRONAS Mesra Rewards have joined forces to launch an exciting new campaign: Turn Your Points into School Holiday Fun!, happening from now to 31 August 2025. Whether you're planning a family getaway or simply looking to maximise your loyalty points, this campaign offers members of both programmes the chance to unlock exclusive perks, bonus points, and incredible prizes. Exclusively on AirAsia Xchange, members can unlock exciting rewards by linking their PETRONAS Mesra Rewards account and converting their points instantly between Mesra Rewards points and AirAsia points. Perks you don’t want to miss: Link your Mesra Rewards account with your AirAsia member account for the first time and receive 100 AirAsia points + 1,000 Mesra Rewards points—completely free! Convert your points and earn up to 2X points during the campaign period. Top two converters will win free flights and hotel stays for two to Kuching or Kota Kinabalu, worth RM3,400. 30 lucky qualifying converters will each win RM200 worth of PETRONAS cash vouchers. During the campaign, members will enjoy enhanced conversion rates. When converting 2,000 Mesra Rewards points to AirAsia points, members will receive a total of 1,000 AirAsia points, double the usual 500 AirAsia points. Similarly, converting 1,250 AirAsia points to Mesra Rewards points will yield 1,000 Mesra Rewards points, instead of the usual 600 Mesra Rewards points. Get ready to turn your points into perks! Simply open your AirAsia MOVE app, go to Points exchange, and link your Mesra Rewards account to begin converting.
Virgin Red announces points transfer partnership with RBN Rewards
In a groundbreaking move set to reshape the luxury real estate industry and loyalty space, Virgin Red, the rewards club from Virgin has announced a points transfer partnership with RBN Rewards. The deal means that individuals buying or selling property through an RBN Participating Agent can now convert their transaction into rewards with Virgin Atlantic Flying Club for members globally and with Virgin Red for U.S. members. Whether it's a home in The U.S., Europe or The Caribbean, a single transaction can earn a significant number of points – unlocking some of the world’s most luxurious travel experiences and rewards. RBN members can now transfer RBN Reward Points at a 1:1 ratio into Virgin Points, opening the door to premium travel across the Virgin portfolio, including Virgin Atlantic, Virgin Hotels Collection, Virgin Voyages and a network of global affiliates such as SkyTeam, one of the major global airline alliances. The partnership provides access to Virgin Red giving members a range of redemption options, from award-winning cruises and flights to exclusive private island escapes and luxury safaris.With a standard earn rate of up to 1 point for every $2 in transaction value, and the ability to transfer points at a 1:1 ratio into Virgin Points, RBN members can unlock access to some of the most extraordinary rewards Virgin Red has to offer*. Example experiences include: An all-inclusive, seven-night escape for two on Necker Island, Virgin Limited Edition’s private paradise in the British Virgin Islands (from 2,000,000 points). A stay at Mahali Mzuri, Virgin Limited Edition’s award-winning luxury safari camp in Kenya (from 330,000 points). A five-night Caribbean voyage with Virgin Voyages, featuring Michelin-inspired dining and a private balcony with ocean views (from 310,000 points). Experience the brand-new Clubhouse at LAX with an Upper Class ticket from Los Angeles to London on Virgin Atlantic (from 40,500 points one way). Kipp Lassetter, CEO of RBN Rewards commented: “This announcement marks a defining moment for the global real estate and loyalty industries and the next step in our mission to revolutionize the way individuals can earn rewards through property. By connecting home purchases and sales to Virgin’s world-class group of companies, we’re creating a new kind of lifestyle advantage, one that converts a necessary transaction into life-enhancing benefits. From cruising the Caribbean, flying first class or planning a dream trip, our members can now access aspirational travel through Virgin Red – all powered by the sale or purchase of their home.” Andrea Burchett, Chief Loyalty Officer and Managing Director for Virgin Red commented: “This partnership with RBN brings together real estate and travel rewards in a bold way. Driven by innovation, a belief in putting customers first, and a shared commitment to delivering extraordinary experiences, RBN and Virgin can’t wait to see how members take advantage of this partnership. Together, we’re enabling property buyers and sellers to earn Virgin Points through high-value transactions, unlocking some of the most coveted rewards Virgin Red has to offer. This collaboration with RBN is redefining what loyalty looks like, turning milestone moments into unforgettable travel experiences.” RBN has become a preferred referral platform for high-net-worth clients by enlisting trusted real estate agents from industry leading brokerages. It offers buyers and sellers the freedom to choose their agent – or invite their existing one to join – and delivers a seamless, privacy-first experience with no cold calls or data reselling. With its affiliation with Forbes Global Properties, RBN is well positioned to serve international clientele. “RBN’s referral network means homebuyers and sellers can earn and redeem points no matter where they live” said Billy Nash, RBN-accredited agent of Nash Luxury / Forbes Global Properties. “Providing access to Virgin Red will transform the real estate journey, allowing families to turn one of life’s biggest transactions into unforgettable rewards. From first class flights to private island escapes, this game-changing deal will open a gateway to the world for our clients.” The exclusive collaboration marks a shift in how real estate can deliver value far beyond the transaction, whereby buyers and sellers are gaining access to a lifestyle that extends across borders, brands and experiences. By partnering with Virgin Red, RBN is setting a new benchmark for rewards, offering meaningful, premium benefits that speak to today’s discerning, globally minded buyer. “This partnership reflects a wider trend that’s reshaping luxury real estate; the move from transactional to experiential value, where modern homeowners can now realise tangible lifestyle returns. By linking premium property with premium rewards, we can create a new standard in how loyalty and luxury intersect,” concludes Kipp Lassetter.
Air New Zealand appoints Nikhil Ravishankar as next Chief Executive Officer
Air New Zealand has announced the appointment of Nikhil Ravishankar as its next Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Greg Foran who steps down in October after almost six years leading the airline through one of the most challenging periods in aviation history. Currently the airline’s Chief Digital Officer, Nikhil will officially take over as CEO on 20 October 2025. In the nearly five years that Nikhil has been at Air New Zealand he has gained a deep understanding of the aviation sector, and the airline. He has also led major advances in the airline’s technology backbone, loyalty program and customer proposition. Air New Zealand Board Chair, Dame Therese Walsh, says the appointment marks the beginning of the next chapter for the airline, reflecting the strong momentum underway and a new generation of leadership for the future. “Across Air New Zealand, we are very clear on what matters most - connecting our communities and country to each other and the world, delivering value and excellence, and running a world-class airline that all Kiwi are proud of. “We have always been bold and not afraid to adapt and lead. Nikhil brings the mindset and contemporary leadership we need to build on our strong foundations and focus on the future. The Board undertook an extensive international search and were delighted to see Nikhil come through the process so strongly. His ambition for the airline’s future and his people leadership skills, coupled with his pursuit of excellence, digital literacy, global outlook and relationships, and his deep care for the airline and New Zealand shone through. “Airlines will continue to face immense challenges, whether that’s climate change, customer expectations, technology, cost pressures or geopolitics. Nikhil brings a fresh perspective that is grounded in New Zealand values and a deep knowledge of the airline and critical infrastructure across different sectors. He’s not afraid to challenge how things are done and ask questions,” says Dame Therese Walsh. Prior to Air New Zealand, Nikhil was Chief Digital Officer at Vector and Managing Director of Accenture. “I’m both thrilled and humbled to be given this opportunity to lead Air New Zealand,” says Nikhil. “This airline is an institution with a deep legacy but also a fantastic future. It’s a privilege to step into the CEO role and take on that responsibility for our people, our customers, and our country. “Airlines are complex, and safety underpins every decision we make. I truly believe that New Zealand is one of the most innovative nations in the world and one of the greatest destinations to visit. Our airline is amongst the very best and I get to work with some of the most dedicated people in the country, from our cabin crew, engineers and pilots to our ground teams, corporate and digital teams behind the scenes. At the end of the day, we are a people business – purposeful, ambitious, and deeply rooted in Aotearoa New Zealand, and I’m excited to help shape what this next stage of Air New Zealand looks like,” says Nikhil Ravishankar.
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