Airlines

American Airlines Is Closing The Door On Its AirPass Program

After 41 years, American quietly scraps AirPass program.

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AirPass is essentially a prepaid airfare scheme where you deposit a sizable amount of money annually to pre-purchase airfare at a predetermined rate.

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Without ever getting on a plane, AirPass was a terrific way to receive many benefits for traveling with Americans. Depending on how much money you put into membership traditionally needing at least $10,000 in funding, you might get privileges like fast upgrades, preferred and Main Cabin Extra seating, Admirals Club access, and even AAdvantage status. You were granted invite-only Concierge Key status after making deposits of $50,000 or more.

AirPass was created with the intention of assisting regular flyers in managing their travel expenses, especially those who made last-minute bookings or modifications to their travel schedule. The program even offered extra perks like access to premium seating.

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But after 41 Years, this American Airlines membership program is coming to an end. As of November 30, the firm will no longer be providing new AirPass memberships, according to a recent announcement.

Through 2024, participants who already have money in the program can utilize it at the present rates, or they can contact the airline to request a refund. Since change fees were widely abolished, AirPass may not have been as useful as it was before the epidemic, however, the company gave no explanation for this on its website.

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Airlines

PIA Reinstates Manchester and Paris Routes After EU Ban Lift

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced plans to resume flights to Europe starting in January, beginning with Paris as its first destination.

The decision follows the European Union Aviation Safety Agency’s (EASA) removal of a long-standing ban on the airline. PIA’s inaugural flight to Paris is scheduled for January 10, with bookings opening on December 9.

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In an official statement, PIA spokesperson Abdullah Hafeez Khan confirmed that the first flight schedule has been approved, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s recovery efforts. The EU ban had previously cost PIA approximately Rs40 billion ($144 million) annually in lost revenue, compounding its financial struggles.

With European operations restarting, PIA is now setting its sights on the United Kingdom. The airline plans to seek approval from the UK Department for Transport (DfT) to resume flights to major British cities such as London, Manchester, and Birmingham.

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These routes are anticipated to see high demand once necessary clearances are obtained. The lifting of the EU ban represents a key achievement for PIA as it works to rebuild its international network and regain its standing in the global aviation market.

By restoring flights to Europe and aiming for UK destinations, PIA is taking critical steps toward recovering lost ground and improving its financial outlook.