The airline industry is still reeling from the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The shocking decline in consumers taking flight has led to many airlines taking proactive steps to try and lure travelers back. British Airways is the latest carrier to do so – offering double Avios on flights through August. Here’s what you need to know.
Earn Double Avios on British Airways Flights
British Airways is sending out an email offer to current Executive Club members. The email announces that current Executive Club members will earn double Avios – the rewards currency of the program – on British Airways flights booked through August 31, 2020.
The email states the following:
“We’ve been reflecting recently about the places we’ve traveled together, the adventures we’ve had and the people we’ve met.
From us to you, we wanted to say thank you for all the good times. And whilst flying looks slightly different right now, we can’t wait for all the new times with you.
To celebrate, we’d like to give you double Avios next time you book with us. All you need to do is register and book by 31 August 2020, and travel by 31 December 2020.”
Global Travel Suffering Badly Due to Coronavirus
According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), global air travel is likely to suffer until at least 2024. This gloomy prediction by the body representing 290 global carriers is actually a year longer than a previous estimate by IATA.
IATA claims that passenger numbers will rise by approximately 62% next year, with short-haul travel predicted to be the major winner in the immediate future.
How Airlines Are Reacting to the COVID-19 Pandemic
Airlines across the globe are continuing to take proactive measures counteract the adverse effects of the coronavirus pandemic. Recently, Air Canada announced updates to its Aeroplan frequent flyer program. The new changes will extend the shelf-life of Aeroplan miles and introduce new ways to reinstate expired miles.
JetBlue and American Airlines are also reacting. The carriers are rolling out a partnership in the Northeast, including:
- Seamless connectivity for passengers traveling on JetBlue and American’s complementary routes.
- Full integration of JetBlue and American Airlines website booking capabilities.
- An expansion of network capacity JetBlue will also introduce flights to LaGuardia (LGA) and Newark (EWR) airports.
- Access to 60 new destinations for JetBlue customers.
About Avios
Avios is the official “currency” of the British Airways Executive Club and four other European carriers’ loyalty programs:
- Aer Lingus
- Iberia
- Air Italy
- Vueling
Rewards program members can earn Avios with flights, hotel stays with partners, or with other Avios partners, and redeem those rewards for flights, hotel stays, and more.
There are currently three airline credit cards that earn Avios, all from Chase Bank:
Related Article: The Ultimate Avios Program Guide
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