Global Entry is an expedited immigration program that can make traveling internationally a relative breeze. It allows you to bypass the lines at immigration by using a kiosk rather than speaking to a Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) agent.
The application process for Global Entry requires you to complete a lengthy application and then schedule an in-person interview at one of the various CBP offices, most of which are at airports. It also requires a $100 application fee.
For the past several years, United has had a Global Entry benefit whereby Mileage Plus members with Global Services, 1K, or Platinum status have been eligible for a payment code that covers 100% of the fee. It's a very easy and seamless process -- quite a rarity for United these days.
Sadly, United has announced that the Global Entry fee reimbursement will not be a benefit of the 2015 Mileage Plus program. So if you're eligible and haven't done so already, I would request a payment code ASAP.
The post Last Call: United Global Entry Fee Payment Code appeared first on One Mile at a Time.
oneworld alliance members British Airways and Qantas were once BFFs, participating in a joint venture on the London-Sydney (“Kangaroo”) route. Money-losing Qantas exited that arrangement in favor of working outside the alliance with Emirates, which has led to major Emirates growth in the Australia market. Emirates competitor and Gulf mega-carrier Qatar then joined oneworld. (And, […]
The post Qatar Airways Buys a Stake in British Airways Parent IAG appeared first on View from the Wing.
Qatar Airways is taking a page from Etihad's playbook, as they've just announced a deal whereby they'll take over a 9.99% stake in IAG, which is the parent company of British Airways and Iberia. The deal is worth $1.7 billion, and comes at a time when IAG's stock is at an all time high.
Here's the press release Qatar Airways has put out regarding the deal:
"As part of efforts to enhance operations and strengthen existing commercial ties initiated through codeshare agreements with IAG as well as its membership of the oneworld alliance, Qatar Airways has acquired a 9.99% stake in IAG.
Non-EU shareholders of IAG including Qatar Airways are subject to an overall cap on non-EU ownership as a result of the requirement for EU airlines to be majority owned by EU shareholders. Qatar Airways may consider increasing its stake further over time although this is not currently intended to exceed 9.99%."
The post Qatar Airways Buys 9.99% Stake in British Airways Parent Company appeared first on One Mile at a Time.
This week British Airways announced a significant devaluation that mostly affects mileage accrual on all but the most expensive premium fares, premium cabin redemptions, and elite status earning. Fortunately for how I use their points, it does not affect spending points for cheap short distance non-stop flights on their partners. Flights under 650 miles remain […]
The post Hitler Discovers the British Airways Devaluation appeared first on View from the Wing.