Air transport will be one of the worst-affected industries worldwide since the global Coronovirus pandemic. Many experts believe that the success of the aviation sector is linked to GDP. The fact that the world economy has fallen from -4.9 percent to -5.2 percent demonstrates this. The argument is simple: when people have more money, they travel more.
In its 110-year existence of commercial operations, the aviation sector has never encountered a disaster of this magnitude. One method to move forwards is to develop unique client loyalty initiatives. Because of their substantial payouts, having a loyalty program software is beneficial in the airline sector.
Existing airline loyalty programs must be streamlined, enhanced, and grown in a post-COVID world to assist the airline sector get back on track. Airline loyalty, it is hoped, will be the answer to the billion-dollar aviation industry’s problem.
What is an airline loyalty program, and how does it work?
Many passenger airlines offer airline loyalty programs, often known as frequent-flyer programs (FFP), to keep their customers loyal. All airline loyalty programs follow the same ‘earn and redeem’ model: business travelers must join up for a membership (usually free) and earn mileage and credits every time they fly or use their partners’ services.
The benefits aim to cover the entire air travel ecosystem, including chain hotels, airport lounges, stores, auto rentals, restaurants, taxis, travel credit cards, etc. Because the entire network is interconnected, frequent passengers help the airline industry’s loyalty programs survive.
The benefits of an airline Loyalty Program
Loyalty programs have made huge revenues in the aviation industry. For example, United Airlines and its associate partners brought in $5.3 billion in loyalty revenue in 2019. At United, the loyalty contribution accounted for 10% of total income. Other airlines have also developed their airline loyalty programs, which generate billions of dollars in additional revenue each year.
It is undeniable that airline loyalty programs generate significant cash for these companies. Well-designed airline reward programs have benefited the major airlines and their affiliate partners. Airline loyalty programs also have many advantages, including:
Convenience during the check-in process
The airline has already kept your information since you joined a reward club. Your airline loyalty subscription will save you effort and time when booking tickets and participating in activities that need personal information.
In-flight services
A loyalty program user receives preferential treatment on the flight over a non-member. You can get in-flight benefits like extra luggage, in-flight purchases, or special services for reward points. The amenities differ from one carrier to the other.
Access to the VIP lounge
As part of loyalty programs, many hotels and airlines have exclusive partnerships. You can gain admission to VIP lounges at airports in exchange for loyalty points or airline miles.
Benefits for Associate Partners
When a member uses the services of affiliate partners, they can receive various benefits. Spending money at partner stores can earn you discounts or loyalty points.
Experiences at High Altitude
Some airlines provide the opportunity to propose in an airplane in return for loyalty points. With loyalty points, you may build a variety of additional high-altitude experiences. A similar program example you can check out is the PayTM Recharge Ambassador program.
All airlines will seek refuge in a loyalty program software sooner rather than later to mitigate the disastrous impact of the 2020 breakdown and turn the tide. There is little doubt that airline loyalty will skyrocket in the post-COVID age. The carriers with the greatest loyalty programs will have an advantage.
