Cheap Flights with Continental Airlines

A United World

Continental Airlines is currently in the process of being merged with United Airlines to create the largest airline in the world, branded as ‘United Continental’. While the merger has generated a great deal of speculation regarding the rationalisation of two such large airlines, there exists relatively little overlap on international routes. When the US Federal Aviation Administration issues the single operating certificate for the new airline at the end of 2011, it is anticipated that existing routes will largely be serviced by the same aircraft, under a new banner.

First in line for Premier Access

Continental’s ‘Elite Access’ has been rebranded as ‘Premier Access’ and will be implemented in line with the merger of Continental and United, which is expected to be accomplished by mid-2012.

Premier Access services will be accorded to all Mileage Plus and OnePass Elite members; First, Business and BusinessFirst customers; Star Alliance Elite members, and Continental Airlines’ Chase Presidential Plus and Presidential Plus for Business card members. Premier Access benefits include: designated ticket counter check-in lines; exclusive priority security lines (when available); priority boarding, and priority baggage claim to ensure a quicker departure.

Onboard, for class and comfort

While onboard, passengers in First and Business class crossing the Pacific will enjoy amenities such as spacious seating, adjustable headrests, pre-departure beverages, complimentary wine selections and alcoholic beverages to accompany their fine dining experience.

Economy class trans-Pacific passengers will be offered assorted beverages throughout the flight, complimentary hot meal and pre-arrival meals and onboard Duty Free. Most aircraft are fitted with the adjustable, winged headrests. There are large overhead bins that can accommodate up to 4 large roller cabin luggage suitcases and complimentary audio/video entertainment on most flights. Live television programming and eight channels of movies, sitcoms and dramas are also available for a fee. Headsets and alcoholic beverages are available for purchase.

Add Miles to Mileage Plus

Continental’s OnePass Frequent Flyer program will be wound down during 2011 and merged with United’s frequent flyer program to become United Continental’s “Mileage Plus”. Current OnePass members will automatically be enrolled in the new program.

One big “+” is to see how well the interface for Mileage Plus has been designed. In a world of convoluted Frequent Flyer plans, their format is clean and easy-to-use. Members are enabled, (as opposed to being confused), to not only manage their accounts but participate in a wide range of promotions that are rewarding.

Stylish, and Presidential

Continental’s President’s club members, OnePass Platinum and Star Alliance Gold members are invited to visit Continental’s stylish ‘club rooms’ and Star Alliance Gold lounges.

During the merger period, it would be wise for Business Class passengers travelling with a Star Alliance carrier on a codeshare flight to consult the lounge policy for the airports they will be visiting to avoid confusion or disappointment.

The President Club lounges offer a wide variety of business-orientated services including complimentary bar services, light snacks and free wireless Internet access. There are agents available to assist with reservations, seat assignment and ticketing, free local phone calls, fax machines, photocopiers, newspapers and use of conference rooms with speakerphones and DVD players. President Club members are also eligible to utilise the Star Alliance network lounges around the world.

Whatever continent you’re on, Continental has you covered.