In the Forbes report...
Australia's Virgin Blue introduces loyalty program
11.14.2005, 07:01 PM
SYDNEY (AFX) - Low cost carrier Virgin Blue Holdings said it will introduce a loyalty program for frequent flyers, called Velocity, which will have points earned by members backed by a trust structure.
It said the program will allow customers to redeem points on any flight all year round with no black out periods such as Christmas or public holidays.
Virgin said the program is being launched with airlines Virgin Atlantic and Emirates as partners as well as Eurocar and National Australia Bank.
As well, the airline, 62.4 pct owned by Patrick Corp, will issue two new Velocity branded credit cards, as it aims to capture a greater share of the frequent flyer market.
Virgin Blue chief executive officer Brett Godfrey said the company's strategy is to broaden its appeal to frequent flyers and the corporate and government sectors.
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