5 Trends in Airline Loyalty That Defined 2025
As the airline industry increasingly turns more premium, loyalty programs — already airlines’ biggest asset — are becoming even more important to their long-term strategy.
Meghna Maharishi is Skift’s Airline Reporter, where she covers everything from loyalty programs to policy-making in Washington, D.C. She previously covered the airline industry at The Points Guy, worked on the investigative desk at CNBC, and did data visualization at CNN Politics. Send tips to Meghna on Signal at mmaharishi.61.
American Airlines No Longer Lets Customers Earn Miles on Basic Economy
The policy is another sign that the economy is skewing toward the wealthy and away from the Middle Class.
House Committee Backs Bill to Shield Air Traffic Control From Shutdown Chaos
If the bill passes Congress, it would remove a major bargaining chip that resulted in the end of the two longest government shutdowns in U.S. history.
Delta President Glen Hauenstein to Retire After Leading Premium Push
Hauenstein played a pivotal role in Delta’s premium push, which has made Delta one of the most profitable airlines in the U.S.
Trump Administration Looks to Ramp Up Flying Taxis
As China makes more advances on flying taxis, the Trump administration is hoping it can speed up the U.S. effort. The biggest startups hope for a 2026 debut.
Spirit in Merger Talks With Frontier — Again: Report
A merger would save Spirit from shutting down, but the combined companies would still face a tough environment for ultra-low-cost carriers.
Barry Biffle Out as Frontier Airlines CEO, Sudden Exit Ends 11-Year Run
Biffle’s sudden departure comes as Frontier has seen its profitability slump.
Spirit Airlines Gets $50 Million Lifeline Following Liquidation Rumors
The immediate access to $50 million will allow Spirit to stay afloat in the short-term. The airline's creditors are meeting Wednesday and it is widely expected that they will discuss Spirit’s third round of bankruptcy financing.
JetBlue’s First Lounge to Debut at JFK: Here’s a Look Inside
JetBlue’s first-ever lounge is bigger than expected and is stylish. Some won't like the grab-and-go food, but a kitchen with hot meals is coming.
Boom CEO: Powering AI Data Centers Will Speed Path to Supersonic Flights
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