Originally Posted by
ByrdluvsAWACO
I've been watching CP Air's developments, and I can't wait to fly with them. It will give some more competition on the OAK-PHX route.
I don't like point based programs, as its easier for the airline to devalue the program. The AS program would give pax a more robust set of partners from the onset . While B6's FFP, with no airline partners, is a total waste of time. However, I would rather see them use AA's program as a first choice.
The pushback from the legacy carriers is that unionized pilot and FA groups see potential agreements with these type of airlines as a way to eventually codeshare or outsource flying.
By piggybacking onto an established FF program, you eliminate an obstacle to building a client base. Historically, legacy carriers use their FF programs to shield their eilte fliers from being poached by new upstarts, even if the newer entrant offers a better on board product.