Rumor : Changes to OnePass coming this month
 

I picked up a rumor from two usually reliable sources within Continental over the past few days that there are rumblings of changes to the OnePass program. These are expected to be announced sometime this month (one specifically said September 16).

Neither source knew the details firsthand and were not willing to comment at all beyond the fact that it would direct services "more towards the higher elite passengers". What this means, I have no clue.

Anyone else picking up similar rumors? I don't have my ear to the ground with Continental as much as I used to, so I'm well out of the loop usually.

Even though total FFP integration was specifically outlawed by the terms of their tripartite alliance.... Delta did release a statement just a few weeks ago that the FFPs would come within 70% or so alignment.

Many took it to mean that DL would ease up on its restrictions... all while hoping that CO/NW wouldnt drop to DL's level despite any semblance of economic sense it may make to do so.

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I wouldnt be surprised whatsoever if EUA privileges become available only to high-yielding domestic fares before this next accrual period begins. In fact, I'll be surprised if that doesn't happen! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/frown.gif

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A340s don't fly... they're repelled from Earth by their ugliness!

[This message has been edited by 777-232LR (edited 09-04-2003).]

if they changed the policy for "free unlimited upgrades" to be only for higher fares, a lot of people would probably leave CO and onepass.

Actually, I'm thinking that any changes will likely be of overall POSITIVE benefit to Elite members. While we might get shafted a bit on upgrades, I believe that CO is looking to implement additional perks for high-yield Elite flyers. Not to mention that Elites (and esp. Platinums) should receive some additional benefits as CO prepares itself for entry into the SkyTeam Alliance.


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Continental Airlines - One airline CAN make a difference.

A check-in agent told me last week that the priority luggage tags will be changed in September. It might be connected to this rumor.

i've heard the same thing about extra services to full fare/elite customers.

[This message has been edited by fly co to see the yanks (edited 09-04-2003).]

I wouldn't leave Onepass altogether but it would give me a reason to change my primary carrier to a low cost carrier. Upgrades are the primary reason I fly CO. I know, I know they (Southwest) don't have FC so what will I be getting for my money? I will get a ton more award tickets to pass on to my family. Tickets I can use just about anytime. No upgrades, tough reward availability....C-YA. Instead of 60-70 flight segments per year, I would go down to 10-20. DON'T DO IT CO.

[This message has been edited by fireworksboy (edited 09-04-2003).]

Agreed, especially because CO's big competition -- AA and UA -- both now offer complimentary space-available domestic upgrades for Y fares. Without the free domestic upgrade perk on all fares, CO would be stuck with a vastly inferior coach cabin vis-a-vis MRTC (or what's left of it, unfortunately) and E+ and a ridiculously tight fisted award program. And this would be a net positive change to most elites how, avek00?

[This message has been edited by cAAl (edited 09-04-2003).]

I left Delta because of their change. If CO changes the upgrade policy I will fly who ever has the best fare and the best time.

Me too. If there's reduced access to domestic upgrades, no clear shot at international upgrades and the miles on account remain virtually unusable, there's no longer a real loyalty/retention proposition. Why bother trying anymore?

I second that!!!

Folks, I wouldn't really get too anxious over any new changes. Remember that, when generally compared to its full-service competitors, Continental Airlines works. I'll say it again, for emphasis: CONTINENTAL AIRLINES WORKS! As a result, the airline does not have a need to make further radical, sweeping changes to the way it does business ala AA, UA, or even DL.

Honestly, I expect that the net effect of the changes will be positive because Continental does not want to ruin a business model that is generally meeting with success. I expect that some changes might be made to the Elite upgrade scheme to further favor high-fare ticket buyers, but that makes good business sense. I also expect to see something about lounge access for Platinums, as CO prepares itself for entry into SkyTeam sometime next year.

Simply put, we are the beneficiaries of CO's superior business savvy (at least, relative to its full-service rivals). Our house might yet have to take a couple more pebble hits, but it pales in comparison to the boulder volleys that folks in glass-house airlines have taken and WILL CONTINUE to take as their failed/failing carriers try to restructure themselves into viable enterprises.

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Continental Airlines - One airline CAN make a difference.

I'll take my chances on AA and US, thanks very much. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

Hell, I'd rather take my chances on Aeroflot than give Gordon Bethune another dime for his crummy coach product, unusuable miles and an awful international upgrade policy.

As long as you realize that by choosing AA or US, you ARE taking your chances...


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Continental Airlines - One airline CAN make a difference.

If domestic upgrades are eliminated for low fares, I WILL take my chances. No skin off your back, right avek00?