Continental Airlines Enhances OnePass for Frequent Flyers

Continental Airlines has launched new OnePass frequent-flyer benefits designed to recognize and reward its top customers.

Beginning 1 January 2010, OnePass Platinum Elite members will be eligible to earn new invitation-only Presidential Platinum Elite status based on their annual spending on travel on Continental, Continental Micronesia, Continental Express and Continental Connection flights.

In addition, Platinum Elite members who earn at least 100,000 Elite qualification miles or 120 Elite qualification points will receive four one-way system-wide upgrade certificates. The certificates can be used to upgrade to domestic first class, international business class or international BusinessFirst in conjunction with any published fare on Continental, Continental Micronesia or Copa Airlines.

“Continental continues to look for ways to recognize our best customers,” said Mark Bergsrud, senior vice president marketing programs and distribution. “For the first time we are offering a new OnePass Elite membership tier to reward customers based on their annual spending in addition to mileage earned. The system-wide upgrade benefit for our top mileage earners is also a first for us.”

Presidential Platinum Elite benefits include top priority for Elite upgrades and flight standby, an exclusive VIP phone line, and, for members residing in the mainland U.S. and Alaska, annual fee waivers on the Continental Airlines Presidential Plus World Mastercard credit card, which also includes Presidents Club membership and other benefits. Members residing in Hawaii, Guam and points outside the U.S. will receive 25,000 OnePass bonus miles.

Platinum Elite status is awarded to members who earn 75,000 Elite qualification miles or 90 Elite qualification points. The initial spending qualification to earn Presidential Platinum Elite status is $30,000.

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