Credit Card News
Breeze Airways to Launch Co-Branded Credit Card with Barclays
In just a couple of years’ time, Breeze Airways has made a bit of a name for itself as it continues to grow its point-to-point operations. Now, the company is looking to expand its brand by launching a new credit card offering.
About the partnership:
This week, Breeze Airways announced that it entered into a long-term agreement with Barclays US Consumer Bank. As a result of this partnership, a co-branded credit card program is planned to launch early next year. While this new offering will operate on the Visa network, no other details have been announced at this time.
However, alongside the new card, Breeze has stated that it will also be launching its first “official” loyalty program. (with “official” in quotation marks in the press release). As the airline’s president Tom Doxey explained, “We think about loyalty very differently than traditional airlines. It’s not about tethering people to our brand but about our brand tethering itself to our guests and providing true value in all aspects of their lives – not just when traveling.” Currently, the airline offers its BreezePoints frequent flier program
About Breeze Airways:
Launched in 2021, Breeze Airways is a discount point-to-point carrier founded by David Neelema — who previously co-founded WestJet, JetBlue, and Azul Brazillian Airlines among others. Currently, the airline operates in more than 35 cities. These include smaller locations such as Northwest Arkansas Regional (XNA), Provo (PVU), Vero Beach Regional (VRB), and more that are connected to a number of larger airports, including Harry Reid International (LAS), Los Angeles International (LAX), San Fransico International (SFO), and Orlando International (MCO) among others.
While the airline is a low-fare carrier, they do offer some unique features. For example, their Breeze Ascent option offers a “business style seat” with 39” of seat pitch and includes carry-on luggage (which is typically charged separately from the base fare). However, Ascent is currently only available on select flights — specifically those aboard an A220.
What they’re saying:
In addition to his comments on the incoming loyalty program, Doxey also spoke on working with a co-branded credit card issuer, saying, “Barclays has a proven track record with major travel brands and this partnership is driven by our shared goal of advancing purposeful innovation. Together, we will provide an unparalleled range of experiences for our cardmembers.” Meanwhile, Barclays US Consumer Bank chief development officer Peter Gasparro said of the partnership, “Barclays and Breeze Airways are committed to innovating in the co-branded credit card space through a highly creative value proposition and frictionless digital experience. Barclays’ partner-first approach to credit card programs will help Breeze Airways reach new heights by enhancing the brand’s core benefits while connecting with our customers through Barclays’ rich data capabilities and personalization tools to deliver seamless digital experiences.”
My thoughts:
With no exact details revealed just yet, it’s impossible to say whether or not the impending Breeze Airways card from Barclays will be a good option for consumers. However, this partnership feels like a win for Breeze as the brand looks to raise awareness for itself and gain new fans. So, we’ll need to wait until next year to see what Breeze and Barclays are able to cook up.