Launch of elite status in new TrueBlue program?
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: Nov 1999
Posts: 3,511
Launch of elite status in new TrueBlue program?
Hi all,
My apologies if this topic has already been covered, but a search didn't turn anything up.
I recall reading last fall that the new TrueBlue program would include an elite level. The details at the time were sparse, but I remember reading that the program would have a soft launch in Q4-2009 and launch publicly in Q1-2010.
I realize we're just days into 2010, but has anyone heard anything more about the TrueBlue elite program? i.e., qualification requirements and benefits?
Thanks!
My apologies if this topic has already been covered, but a search didn't turn anything up.
I recall reading last fall that the new TrueBlue program would include an elite level. The details at the time were sparse, but I remember reading that the program would have a soft launch in Q4-2009 and launch publicly in Q1-2010.
I realize we're just days into 2010, but has anyone heard anything more about the TrueBlue elite program? i.e., qualification requirements and benefits?
Thanks!
#2
A FlyerTalk Posting Legend
Join Date: Apr 2001
Location: PSM
Posts: 69,232
I don't really think that a "soft launch" of the product in Q4 2009 was ever in the cards.
Adding the new benefits requires the back end systems to handle it all. In jetBlue's case that means upgrading a number of things, most notably switching to Sabre for their reservations system. That switch is (last I heard) still on schedule to happen early this year. Once it happens they can start in on the other stuff like adding "elite" benefits for VFFs.
I haven't heard anything more specifically about requirements or benefits that will be part of the program.
Adding the new benefits requires the back end systems to handle it all. In jetBlue's case that means upgrading a number of things, most notably switching to Sabre for their reservations system. That switch is (last I heard) still on schedule to happen early this year. Once it happens they can start in on the other stuff like adding "elite" benefits for VFFs.
I haven't heard anything more specifically about requirements or benefits that will be part of the program.
#4
Join Date: Feb 2010
Location: AUS
Programs: AA EP, Hyatt DIA
Posts: 70
Maybe that's a good jumping off point for discussion. What perks could B6 offer? What perks would you like B6 to offer?
My initial thoughts on a few possibilities and their personal value:
Complimentary alcoholic drinks - Occasionally useful, depending on my post flight plans.
Priority boarding - Occasionally useful, when wielding a rollerbag on what looks to be a nearly full flight. Otherwise I prefer to be among the last to board.
Priority counter access - Occasionally useful, when electing to check. That's usually only when I'm traveling with a knife, liquids, or some other form of contraband that the TSA types expect me to use to take down the plane.
Free second bag check - Not really useful, as I can't recall the last time I needed to check two pieces.
My initial thoughts on a few possibilities and their personal value:
Complimentary alcoholic drinks - Occasionally useful, depending on my post flight plans.
Priority boarding - Occasionally useful, when wielding a rollerbag on what looks to be a nearly full flight. Otherwise I prefer to be among the last to board.
Priority counter access - Occasionally useful, when electing to check. That's usually only when I'm traveling with a knife, liquids, or some other form of contraband that the TSA types expect me to use to take down the plane.
Free second bag check - Not really useful, as I can't recall the last time I needed to check two pieces.
#5
Join Date: Jun 2005
Location: AUS
Programs: AA Exec Platinum/MM, DL Gold/MM, Hilton Diamond, Accor Platinum, Hertz Presidents Circle
Posts: 6,975
Frontier's program would be the best model for what B6 might do. Their details: http://www.frontierairlines.com/fron...tier-levels.do
Basically access to priority lines, free "even more legroom" seats, free drinks, 2 free bags, easier award redemptions, waived change fees.
Basically access to priority lines, free "even more legroom" seats, free drinks, 2 free bags, easier award redemptions, waived change fees.
#6
Join Date: Feb 2010
Location: AUS
Programs: AA EP, Hyatt DIA
Posts: 70
Waived change fees and a dedicated phone number would be nice.
Even More Legroom seats I'm fairly ambivalent. Most of my B6 travel is on the E190, where I can usually score a pair of seats to myself at the back of the bus.
Even More Legroom seats I'm fairly ambivalent. Most of my B6 travel is on the E190, where I can usually score a pair of seats to myself at the back of the bus.
#8
Join Date: Apr 2006
Programs: jetBlue TrueBlue, Marriott Rewards, Hilton Honors Diamond
Posts: 2,164
There are some pretty awesome things planned for the next 2 years. The company is really stepping up and looking to add benefits to both the TrueBlue progam as well as our overall flying experience.
#10
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Jun 2002
Location: n.y.c.
Posts: 13,988
Does corporate communicate these things formally to people like yourself, or is your knowledge more word-of-mouth?
#11
Join Date: Apr 2006
Programs: jetBlue TrueBlue, Marriott Rewards, Hilton Honors Diamond
Posts: 2,164
Normally corporate won't give us details until we are a few months away from a launch, however we are getting a sneak peek at things in the works over the next few years because of our birthday. I won't go into details as that is still on the downlow but I think we have some awesome product enhancements coming that the customers will enjoy immensely.
#12
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Jun 2002
Location: n.y.c.
Posts: 13,988
The birthday explanation really does not make a whole lot of sense, but hopefully you'll get a better track record than your other two colleagues: TrueBlueGal and TrueBlueGuy!