Level Up Your Flight: AirBaltic Introduces Business Class Bidding System
AirBaltic is offering passengers the unique opportunity to bid for an upgrade to business class. If business class seats are available on a given flight, passengers can submit an offer via email seven days before departure.
The bidding period remains open until a specific time before departure, which varies depending on the originating airport. AirBaltic then reviews all submitted bids, taking into account existing reservations, and decides which offers to accept. Passengers are not guaranteed a business class seat, as the final decision rests with the airline.
“We believe this new system will provide even more of our customers with the chance to experience the comfort and convenience of flying in business class,” explains Natālija Kuzmina, AirBaltic’s Vice President for Customer Experience and Reviews. “Furthermore, it introduces an exciting new revenue stream for the airline.
Business Class Benefits
AirBaltic’s business class passengers enjoy a range of perks designed to elevate their travel experience. Benefits include priority check-in and boarding, assuring a smoother, faster airport journey. Assigned seats at the front of the plane offer added privacy thanks to an empty adjacent seat. Complimentary meals are served onboard, and expedited disembarkation upon arrival allows for a quicker transition to the next destination.
Kuzmina also hints at future plans, saying, “We intend to expand this initiative next year, incorporating additional revenue-generating solutions to further enhance our customer offerings.”
The carrier’s move into business class bidding follows a successful year. In 2023, AirBaltic transported 4.536 million passengers, marking a 35.7% increase compared to 2022. The airline also reported 44,100 flights, representing an 18.3% rise from the previous year.
The company’s audited turnover last year amounted to €664.289 million, a 33.2% increase over 2022. Importantly, AirBaltic secured a profit of €33.852 million, a significant turnaround from losses incurred in the prior year.
The Latvian state holds 97.97% of AirBaltic’s shares, with the remaining 2.03% owned by “Aircraft Leasing 1,” a company controlled by Danish businessman Lars Tūsen.
How does AirBaltic’s business class bidding system work?
## A New Way to Fly Business: Bidding with AirBaltic
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**Host:** Welcome back to the show! Today we’re talking about exciting news for travelers hoping for a little extra luxury on their next flight. AirBaltic has announced a brand new system that lets passengers bid for an upgrade to business class. Joining us today to discuss this innovative program is Alex Reed, travel expert and founder of [Alex Reed’s Website/Company]. Welcome to the show!
**Alex Reed:** Thanks for having me! I’m thrilled to talk about this.
**Host:** So, tell us, how does this bidding system work?
**Alex Reed:** Well, it’s quite simple really! If business class seats are available on your flight, you can submit an offer via email starting seven days before departure. The bidding period stays open until a certain time before your flight, which varies depending on where you’re flying from.
**Host:** That sounds pretty straightforward. Does AirBaltic guarantee you’ll get an upgrade if you make an offer?
**Alex Reed:** Unfortunately, there are no guaranteed upgrades. AirBaltic reviews all the bids they receive, taking into account existing reservations and other factors. They then select which offers to accept.
**Host:** So, it’s a bit of a gamble, then?
**Alex Reed:** It can be. But it’s also a fantastic opportunity for travelers who might not usually be able to afford business class to experience that extra comfort and convenience.
**Host:** Absolutely. And what benefits can passengers expect if their bid is accepted?
**Alex Reed:** Oh, all the perks of business class! Think priority check-in, extra legroom, complimentary meals and drinks, and often access to airport lounges. It truly elevates the travel experience.
**Host:** I can see why this is getting a lot of buzz. Any final thoughts for our listeners who are considering bidding on an upgrade?
**Alex Reed:** I’d say go for it! It’s a unique opportunity to potentially snag an amazing deal and fly in style. Just remember to set a budget for your bid and cross your fingers!
**Host:** Excellent advice. Thank you so much for joining us today, Alex Reed. This has been fascinating.
**Alex Reed:** My pleasure!
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