In 2025, air passengers will see lounge openings and changes in frequent flier programs, and the number of premium and elite offerings will continue at a steady ascent.
For some travelers, reaching elite frequent flier status will be more costly and challenging. United Airlines has plans to raise its status thresholds, requiring travelers to spend and fly more to get perks like free checked bags and upgrades. British Airways, too, has major changes underway for its loyalty program, moving from a system based on distance traveled and cabin class to a revenue-based system hinging on how much travelers spend. Overall, it will be harder than ever for budget travelers to build loyalty with airlines.
Airlines hope to win over customers with new lounges. In late 2025, JetBlue will offer its first airport lounge in New York, at Kennedy International Airport, and in Philadelphia, American Airlines will open two lounges.
Traveler demand for premium flying, whether those roomier seats in economy or all the luxuries in the higher-tier classes,is expected to continue, and airlines hope to meet demand.
Emirates recently rolled out a premium economy cabin on select routes in the United States after refurbishing its Boeing 777 aircrafts, and the carrier’s premium cabin will be available on more routes.
In addition to offering new premium economy cabins, American is expected to unveil new business class seating later this year. Alaska Airlines will continue its expansion of both premium and first-class seating on more than 200 of its aircraft, eventually adding about a million premium class seats and 250,000 first-class seats. (This means it could be easier to get upgraded.) Even budget carriers, like Southwest Airlines, are retrofitting planes to expand premium economy cabins and offer seat selection and slightly more legroom. Frontier Airlines plans to introduce first-class seating.
Delta Air Lines recently opened its most exclusive lounges yet in Boston, Los Angeles and New York, with another location in Seattle expected in the spring. The lounges will welcome Delta One ticketholders, select Delta travelers flying first class, and eligible passengers flying first or business class on partnering airlines.
Delta One customers can expect white glove service with personalized assistance and semi-private check-in spaces. At Kennedy Airport and Los Angeles International Airport, these travelers won’t have to set foot in the main security checkpoint. Instead, they’ll use a private security lane that leads them directly to the lounge.
