Kuwait Airways has partnered with Canada-based Plusgrade to launch “Just Upgrade”, a new service for passengers seeking a seat upgrade.
The initiative is part of the Kuwaiti flag carrier’s plans to enhance passenger experience. “Just Upgrade” will enable passengers to bid for an upgraded seat 24-hours prior to their flights.
In addition, the partnership with the Canada-based ancillary revenue solutions provider will streamline bidding on Kuwait Airways’ platform.
“Uncompromising customer experience is what distinguishes Kuwait Airways and our passengers have come to trust us to deliver seamless travel experiences,” said Meshal Al Mutairi, director of customer services at Kuwait Airways.
Read: Sustainable travel: 3 tips for a greener journey in the Middle East
Growing trend
“Just Upgrade” is a service by Plusgrade already used by a range of international carriers. This includes Air Canada, Etihad, and Singapore Airlines. By providing the service, Kuwait Airways joins a growing list of airlines offering upgrade options for their passengers.
Plusgrade’s “Just Upgrade” offering allows passengers to easily upgrade between economy and business class, as wellas between business and first class. Kuwait Airways’ passengers can use the same service for its Boeing 777 exclusive Royal Class and first class.
Passengers availing themselves of “Just Upgrade” can also benefit from a range of premium services, such as priority check-in and boarding. In addition, it also provides access to premium lounges across partner airports worldwide.
At the moment, however, not all flights may be eligible for an upgrade. For approved flights, passengers can check the status with their booking reference through the Kuwait Airways website. They can then make an offer on an upgraded seat a full day before departure.
Loyalty program
Alongside “Just Upgrade”, Kuwait Airways will also incorporate Plusgrade’s Points loyalty program for its frequent fliers. Points accumulated through Plusgrade Points will be integrated with Kuwait Airways’ existing Oasis Club membership. This will also allow the airline’s loyalty program members to purchase miles outright and level up their reward tiers faster.
“We pay great attention to the comfort and needs of our valued customers and aim to offer the best services to make the journey enjoyable. We are pleased to expand our loyalty program offerings to give Oasis Club members even more ways to acquire their miles that will create memorable travel experiences,” added Al Mutair.
Kuwait Airways expansion
The latest Kuwait Airways initiative is part of a broader plan to make it more competitive, in line with its expansion strategy. It hopes to increase its passenger capacity, currently at five million, to tap into Kuwait’s 15 million domestic passenger market.
To meet this demand, Kuwait Airways is planning to grow its fleet to 50 aircraft by 2030, according to published reports. In addition, the airline is keen on enhancing its onboard offerings and cabins, such as its Elite Suite and Comfort Plus. Plans are also in place to introduce new travel classes for its fleet of Airbus A330neo aircraft.
Furthermore, Kuwait Airways is aiming to expand its network. Earlier this year, it launched two new destinations, one to Athens (ATH) and another to Antalya (AYT). Its year-end goal is to launch 60 direct flights to various destinations. This is in addition to potentially serving 100 new destinations through interline and codeshare agreements, with Southeast Asia as its prime target.
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