Discounted, inflation-proof air fares with Delta Air Lines, guaranteed over a five-year period, are being offered by Global Business Pass, which is being re-launched in the UK this month. It also provides users with cut-price rates at various Marriott hotel brands, also guaranteed for a year. Greater flexibility is a feature of the latest product. Previously, customers were required to pay upfront for the full five-year commitment. Now it is possible to pay on an annual basis for the agreed term, or topping it up from time to time, simply ensuring the account has sufficient funds to cover future purchases. “Money goes into a Bermuda-based trust bank, and is lodged in the customer’s name,” explains chief executive Tony Forster. “When a customer buys into the programme, they are effectively making a deposit for future travel.”
The initial launch, three years ago, was hampered by Delta’s financial problems, but the airline emerged from Chapter 11 earlier this year “much improved and on a sound financial footing, with efficiencies that translate into lower costs” says Forster. “Delta’s expanded international network and new BusinessElite product, with arguably the best lie-flat beds and other enhancements, makes it one of the best across the North Atlantic,” maintains John Bintliff, GBP chairman.
The Global Business Pass, already in use in the US, is expected to appeal particularly to small- and medium-sized companies who benefit from savings of up to 60% on transatlantic Business Class fares. Significant discounts are also available on top-end Marriott brands, such as Ritz-Carlton, JW Marriott and Renaissance.
Platinum privileges
American Express Platinum Corporate Card, which gives access to more than 500 airport lounges worldwide and complimentary upgrades with selected car rental and hotel partners, has been extended to the UK, France and Germany. Cardholders also have access to the American Express Concierge, a 24-hour team of travel and business service consultants who can advise on and book hotels, restaurants and transport. Holders also receive complimentary membership of the American Express loyalty programme and extensive travel accident, flight delay and personal belongings cover, medical assistance, medical expenses and repatriation. Double miles
Radisson Hotels & Resorts is currently running a double miles promotion with four key airline partners in an effort to build greater brand awareness with frequent travellers. Members of United Airlines Mileage Plus programme, American Airlines` AAdvantage, Northwest Airlines` WorldPerks and Air Canada`s Aeroplan can earn 1,000 miles per stay, until the end of the year. They simply present their frequent flyer membership card when checking into a participating Radisson hotel worldwide and ask for double miles. The hotel group has more than half of almost 400 properties located in 65 countries outside North America. Hertz introduces hourly rentals A novel concept in car hire is Hertz Hourly Rentals, which the company has introduced in two US cities. It enables cars to be rented on an hourly basis – for up to seven hours – at all 12 of its locations in Manhattan, and at the company's Boston Park Plaza location in Boston. Rates are from US$12 per hour, with no fuel charge, no application fees and no charges for cancelling or changing a reservation. Hertz Hourly Rentals are an easy way to rent a car on an hourly basis, for up to seven hours.
As with all Hertz rentals, Hertz Hourly Rentals also includes unlimited mileage and 24-hour Emergency Roadside Assistance.
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