SINGAPORE AIRLINES ANNOUNCES STRATEGIC ALLIANCE WITH AMERICAN EXPRESS TO LAUNCH CO-BRAND CREDIT CARD

Card to offer ways to earn KrisFlyer miles faster, in addition to privileges of American Express Cardmembership

Singapore Airlines (SIA) today entered into a strategic alliance with the world's largest card issuer, American Express, to launch its first ever co-brand credit card – the American Express Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Credit Card.

Launched simultaneously in four Asian markets - Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia and Taiwan - the Card will allow customers to use their everyday purchasing power to earn KrisFlyer miles and become eligible for free travel and other KrisFlyer benefits more quickly.

“By entering into this alliance with American Express, we are harnessing the power of two of the world’s leading brands, renowned for excellence in customer service, to provide customers with travel-related benefits,” said Mr Chia Boon Kuah, Singapore Airlines' Area Vice President Singapore.

“With the American Express Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Credit Card, SIA is providing customers with an easy and convenient way to quickly accumulate KrisFlyer miles."

Mr Anthony Lee, Area Manager, Singapore/Malaysia/Indonesia, Travel Related Services, American Express International, Inc, said, “We are proud to be the partner of choice for Singapore Airlines’ co-brand credit card.

“This landmark alliance between American Express and Singapore Airlines will offer a new credit card that addresses the changing needs of travellers who are becoming more discerning about what they want from their preferred airlines and credit cards.

“We are confident this new credit card will help set new standards in the credit card industry in the region.”

Mr Chia said, “KrisFlyer, SIA's frequent flyer programme, which began in February last year, is a rewarding way for our customers to connect with a host of services, including hotels, telecommunications provider and car rental agencies all over the world, to earn KrisFlyer miles. This new Card will make it even easier and give them more incentive to do so."

Mr Lee said, "Our partnership with Singapore Airlines and the introduction of the new Card is a re-affirmation of our commitment to bringing the best product to the Singapore market and the region. The simultaneous launch of the new Card across four markets clearly demonstrates our strength and reach in the region."

The Card (available in Singapore in both Classic and Gold) offers Cardmembers one of the fastest and easiest means to earn travel rewards on Singapore Airlines:

· Three ways to earn KrisFlyer miles faster

Using the new American Express Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Credit Card, customers can earn up to one KrisFlyer mile for every S$1.60 (or equivalent) they charge to the Card. Secondly, they earn up to 5000 bonus KrisFlyer miles the first time they charge to the Card. And finally, they earn up to double KrisFlyer miles for purchase of Singapore Airlines and SilkAir tickets charged to the Card.

· Privileges of American Express Cardmembership

The new Credit Card will offer the recognition and privileges that come with American Express Cardmembership - Global acceptance, Worldwide Card replacement, access to the world's largest travel network, and 24-hour emergency medical and legal advice. Above all, the new Card will offer Cardmembers the facility to cut their interest payments by up to half (they will pay only 11.99% p.a.) when they transfer their balances from a higher rate credit card or overdraft accounts to their new Card.

· Free companion ticket or special fare offer for a limited period

To celebrate the launch, Cardmembers will be offered, for a limited period, a free companion ticket or other special fare offer when they charge onto the Card their first purchase of Singapore Airlines or SilkAir tickets to select destinations.

· Annual fee waived

Cardmembers enjoy all the privileges of Cardmembership free for the first year.


The American Express Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Gold Basic and Supplementary Cards are offered free to PPS Club Members for as long as they remain PPS Club Members.


Singapore Airlines is internationally recognised as one of the world's leading airlines and an industry leader and innovator, especially in the areas of service and inflight entertainment. It operates one of the most modern fleets in the industry and its group network extends to 90 destinations in 41 countries – serving Asia, Europe, North America, the Middle East, the South West Pacific and Africa.


KrisFlyer, SIA's frequent flyer programme, offers a comprehensive global travel network, covering over 800 destinations with KrisFlyer airline partners. The programme has a total of 35 international partners. KrisFlyer miles can be redeemed for free flights, free upgrades and free companion tickets.


American Express, which is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year, is a diversified worldwide travel, financial services and network services company. Founded in 1850, it is a leader in charge and credit cards, Travellers Cheques, travel, financial planning, investment products, insurance and international banking.


In Singapore, American Express is celebrating its 75th anniversary, having opened its first office there in 1925.

Co-brand cards defined

Co-brand cards are increasing in popularity around the world. For the customer they are charge or credit cards that not only offer card benefits but also offer incremental value provided by the co-brand partners. For the partner companies, the co-brand card helps create customer loyalty and generate incremental sales.