Originally Posted by
FTRox87
...at the same time as a new player in the transfer program,
Citi knows how these programs work, and they have the requisite contacts with pretty much any airline. In 1984 Citi invented Diners Club Rewards, the first card program that awarded points which could be transferred to a variety of airlines. The program still exists, but has been sold on to BMO.
Originally Posted by
Rus925
So why do Chase and AmEx offer transfers to MileagePlus and SkyPesos
In the case of American Express the reason is historical. Delta was one of the original partners in Membership Miles, as the American Express program was called when in launched in 1991. The SkyMiles credit cards came later.
Chase did not add UA to Ultimate Rewards until a few months before Continental OnePass ceased to exist. I think they knew they need a Star Alliance partner to make the program appealing. Now they also have SQ, and I wonder if UA will remain long term.
I do also wonder if Citi will cave in and add AA to ThankYou Rewards after the legacy balances are flushed out.