Frequent fliers on United Airlines might have noticed a posh new perk awaiting them at the carrier’s hubs this summer: a personal chauffeur to whisk them to their connecting gate in a BMW.
The airline says that it successfully completed more than 14,000 tarmac transfers for its Mileage Plus Premier members over the summer. The service is available free of charge for United’s top-tier status members flying through six of its hub airports, including Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C.
The service is seamless for passengers, with a dedicated Premier services agent who meets travelers at their arrival gate and escorts them to an all-electric BMW sedan or SUV waiting on the tarmac to take them to their next plane.
“This summer, our ground transfer program with BMW of North America showed how seamless, premium journeys create real value for our MileagePlus members – helping thousands connect with less stress and more comfort,” said Richard Nunn, CEO of MileagePlus. “BMW of North America’s commitment to innovation, luxury and sustainability further extends our program’s value, giving members elevated travel experiences that feel effortless and rewarding, while underscoring United’s commitment to delivering thoughtful, forward-looking solutions.”
The airline currently operates a fleet of seven BMW i7 xDrive60 sedans and three BMW iX M70 SUVs for its chauffeur program.
Although the tarmac transfers are reserved for MileagePlus Premier passengers, the airline is working to make connections easier for all travelers. United just launched a new remote baggage screening program for connecting travelers on flights from Sydney (SYD) to San Francisco (SFO) that allows passengers to check their luggage straight through to their final destination.
The program will save passengers an estimated 45 minutes during their layover at SFO.
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