United Just Changed Its Lounge Access And Credit Card Policies

The airline’s credit card holders and travelers who purchase United lounge memberships likely won’t be thrilled with the changes.

United Club lounges, like the sprawling outpost at Denver International Airport, can be accessed with a paid membership that now costs a bit extra.Courtesy of United Airlines

More changes are afoot at United Airlines. Less than five months after announcing a change to its loyalty program, making it harder than ever to earn elite status, the carrier yesterday shared that increased fees for its co-branded credit cards and lounge memberships had gone into immediate effect.

It’s the latest example of airlines making lounges harder to access in order to manage overcrowding and maintain a more premium experience. They’re also increasing other fees, ranging from checked bag fees to credit card rates, to boost revenue during rising costs and economic uncertainty.

The changes were implemented on Monday, March 24, with the new fees applying to all future sign-ups. Existing customers won’t be required to pay the increased rate until their renewal date. Here’s what to know about the changes to United’s credit card and airport lounge programs.

Changes to United Club lounge access

United now offers two membership tiers for its pay-to-use lounges (which include access to more than 45 United Club outposts and two grab-and-go concepts nationwide).

Individual Memberships will now cost $750 (up from $650 a year) a year or 94,000 United loyalty miles and allow access only to the pass holder (though they can bring a guest into the lounge on a one-off basis for $59 a pop). Previously, you could bring two adult guests or one adult guest and any number of dependent children.

The other option is a brand new All Access Membership. It allows members to bring up to two guests and includes entry to participating lounges belonging to other airlines in the Star Alliance network, now costs $1,400 or 175,000 miles (though travelers with elite status with the airline receive discounted rates of up to $400 or 50,000 miles off).

While the restructuring definitely stings, it is not as limiting as the changes Delta Air Line announced in 2023 for access to its Sky Clubs, a move that sparked enough pushback from frequent fliers that Delta walked back some of the alterations.

Changes to United’s credit card program

United offers a handful of co-branded credit cards, each with different annual fees and perks. The following cards are increasing their yearly payment cost while adding new benefits for cardholders.

The United Explorer Card: Now has an annual fee of $150, up from $95

The United Quest Card: Now has an annual fee of $350, up from $250

The United Club Card and the United Club Business Card: Now both have an annual fee of $695, up from $525 and $450, respectively. For each, a United Club membership is still included, but cardholders will get entry for only one guest and any dependents under 18 years of age at United lounges (down from two guests and dependents under 21). They will not be granted access to Star Alliance or other partner lounges unless they spend $50,000 on their card in a given year, in which case they’ll unlock an All Access Membership.

Each of the credit cards now comes with a handful of yearly statement credits, including money back on reservations made through Renowned Hotels and Resorts (Chase’s luxury hotel booking platform for United cardholders), on Uber or Lyft rides, on Avis or Budget car rentals booked through United Cars, on a JSX flight, and Instacart purchases. The dollar amount varies by card.

https://www.afar.com/authors/bailey-berg

Demand For Flights To China Has Risen Recently, Singapore Airlines Exec Says

Singapore Airlines has seen a surge in passenger traffic into China in recent months, but outbound travel has still not recovered to pre-pandemic levels, Chief Commercial Officer Lee Lik Hsin said on Friday.

"We have seen quite a surge in inbound travel into China in the last six months or so," Lee said at a news briefing following the release of their annual results.

Load factors, or the share of seats sold on flights, on the carrier's China flights have improved to within the 80% range, compared to the 70% range last year, he said.

Asia's post-pandemic air travel recovery has lagged in places due to China, the world's second-largest economy, being slower than the rest of the world to return to international flying.

Capacity into China for the carrier's full service airline has largely recovered to pre-pandemic levels, but low-cost subsidiary Scoot is flying about 80% of its pre-COVID capacity into China, he said.

Singapore Airlines on Thursday reported a record annual net profit, boosted by a one-off gain from a merger of its 49%-owned Indian carrier Vistara and Air India, but lower air fares in response to increased competition weighed on operating profit.

Reporting by Lisa Barrington; Editing by Christian Schmollinger

Travelore Tips: Some Airports Will Now Issue A 'Gate Pass' To Non-Flyers, So Here's How To Request One

If you watch old movies or TV shows and sigh nostalgically for the days when you could take loved ones directly to their gate at the airport, or show up to greet them as they're getting off the plane (think Rachel meeting Ross on "Friends"), you're not alone. Getting to spend a bit of extra time with our friends and family can mean a lot, leading people to utilize helpful tricks like dropping people off at arrivals so they can have a few more minutes of hug time. However, in recent years, some U.S. airports have instituted policies that let you drop people off or pick them up right at the gate with something called a "gate pass." Each participating airport has a different name for its specific program, and different rules around when and how to apply, where you can go, how long you can stay, and what sort of pass you have to have on your person.

Participating airports at the time of this writing include Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), Orlando International Airport (MCO), Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW), San Antonio International Airport (SAT), Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), Capital Region International Airport (LAN) in Michigan, Tulsa International Airport (TUL), Ontario International Airport (ONT), Tri-Cities Airport (TRI), John Wayne Airport (SNA) in Orange County, California, and Palm Springs International Airport (PSP). Although most of these airports are international, you cannot do this for people coming in from other countries, as customs laws prevent it.

How the gate pass systems work

The gate pass programs allow you to do more than just accompany your loved one right to the gate or pick them up from one. You can spend some time shopping at airport stores together, or sitting down for one more meal before they leave. (Louis Armstrong International Airport is one of the best U.S. airports for food offerings like Leah's Kitchen and Emeril's Table, so it's doubly worth it there.) 

If you want to get a gate pass for yourself to use for a loved one's upcoming flight, check the airport's website or call them to find out the specific requirements. For instance, while Philadelphia International Airport's Wingmate Pass lets you apply ahead of time online (as most do), Detroit Metropolitan Airport only allows you to apply in person at kiosks on the departures level at specific terminals, and it must be used that day. If you're applying for one at Ontario International Airport, you must know the terminal and flight time, and you have to show up with a fully-charged phone and a digital pass only. However, you will always need a government-issued ID, and you can't skip long security lines with TSA PreCheck. Airports cap the pass number differently as well, with some allowing 100 per day, and some only 25. You will also have to go through the TSA security checkpoint. 

Note that this is different from the airline passes to accompany minors flying alone and disabled persons to their gates. In that case, you'll also need a government-issued ID and go through security, but you'll get your pass at the ticket counter when you bring them. In this case, call your airline beforehand to double check the necessary steps. 

https://www.islands.com/author/jennabusch/

A New Legacy Begins For Regent Seven Seas Cruises® With First Look Inside Seven Seas Prestige™

Regent Seven Seas Cruises®, the world’s leading ultra luxury cruise line, has unveiled detailed renderings and a spectacular “fly-through” video of select public spaces on board Seven Seas Prestige™. The new images and video of the Starlight Atrium and Galileo’s Bar hint at the exquisite elegance and comfort that will be found on board Seven Seas Prestige, scheduled to launch in late 2026, beginning a new legacy for all-inclusive, ultra luxury cruising.

Drawing on inspiration ranging from classical and Renaissance architecture, both the Starlight Atrium and Galileo’s Bar were designed by Studio DADO, who were also the creative drive behind the cruise line’s highly successful Explorer-Class ships. Now, with Seven Seas Prestige, the DADO team has captured the essence of The Most Inclusive Luxury Experience®, building on Regent’s rich heritage which will inspire guests to embrace each moment with awe and delight.

“With Seven Seas Prestige being Regent’s first new ship class in 10 years, we are delighted to share these first glimpses of this incredible vessel,” said Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer for Regent Seven Seas Cruises. “Hosting only 822 guests on a ship that could fit hundreds more means we will offer Heartfelt Hospitality in Unrivaled Space at Sea like never before. I truly cannot wait for this magnificent ship to join The World’s Most Luxurious Fleet and the new legacy of all-inclusive, ultra luxury cruising that begins with it.”

The visuals offer a peak into what’s in store for future reveals with the introduction of brand-new accommodation categories - including a reimagination of the palatial Regent Suite - plus new dining experiences, coming soon.

Starlight Atrium

Embodying a blend of old-world elegance and modern sophistication, the Starlight Atrium recalls an era of quality craftmanship and style, illuminated by a glass-enclosed ceiling that allows sunlight and starlight to grace the space.

“The Starlight Atrium is where the grandeur of Renaissance architecture meets modern luxury, creating a space that feels both timeless and contemporary,” said Yohandel Ruiz, Founding Partner, Studio DADO. “Our goal was to get people to stop in their tracks, awe-struck by its sheer scale and magnificence.”

Not only a place for quiet contemplation while enjoying a glass of Champagne, or practical matters with essential guest services, the Starlight Atrium’s generous space connects multiple guest amenities across decks 4 & 5, such as Galileo’s Bar, the Casino, Prestige Lounge, Meridian Lounge, Coffee Connection, concierge desk and reception.

The two-story Starlight Atrium features twin spiral staircases, beginning on deck 4, which combine on deck 5 and gracefully lead all the way up to deck 11.

On deck 5, alcoves with sculptural furniture and curated art offer breathtaking ocean views—the perfect place to watch the sun rise or slip beyond the horizon at the end of a perfect day. Designed with a neutral palette of dusty rose, taupe, and cream, combined with embellished trims and fringed pillows, the alcoves harken back to old-world detailing.

The reception area, also on deck 5, features pleated leather panels and a light fixture crafted from handblown glass and ceramic pearls. From the lifts, looking back towards Galileo’s Bar, walls are framed with paneling and artwork, creating a traditional yet modern aesthetic.

Galileo’s Bar

Named in a nod to Regent’s beloved Seven Seas Navigator® which will soon leave the fleet, Galileo’s Bar is strategically placed to serve both the Prestige Lounge and adjacent casino. The bar’s ceiling is a canvas displaying a contemporary masterpiece styled like an oil painting, framed by fretted metal detailing.

The base of the bar features fluted elements, and the bold, striped floor highlights the bar’s footprint, creating a focal point for the Starlight Atrium; it is the place for guests to indulge in complimentary premium beverages that come as standard with a Regent sailing.

From the bar, views of the spiral staircases extend back into the Starlight Atrium on both port and starboard sides. The walls, clad in a limestone texture, are adorned with sconces designed to resemble jewelry, adding a touch of glamour.

For more information about Seven Seas Prestige, please visit RSSC.com/ships/seven_seas_prestige, call 1-844-4REGENT (1-844-473-4368) or contact a professional Travel Advisor.

United Unveils The Elevated Aircraft Interior: Higher Standard Of Premium International Travel Includes New Business Class Suites, Caviar Service And Largest Seatback Screens In The U.S. On New 787 Dreamliners

United Airlines today unveiled the United Elevated interior for new Boeing 787-9 aircraft that raises the standard of international premium travel among U.S. carriers and will include two, new business class suites, the greatest number of total premium seats in United's fleet, an Ossetra caviar amuse-bouche service, Starlink connectivity and even larger 4K OLED seatback screens.

The airline's new United Polaris Studio suites are positioned in the first row of each business class section and total eight, lie-flat, all-aisle-access seats that are 25% larger than standard United Polaris with privacy doors, an extra ottoman seat for companions, exclusive entrée options, an Ossetra caviar amuse-bouche service, new amenity kits with luxury skincare offerings, wireless charging, Bluetooth connectivity, and a huge 27-inch, 4K OLED seatback screen - the largest among U.S. carriers.

Standard United Polaris seats also get upgraded to suites with the addition of sliding doors and larger, 19-inch 4K OLED screens And all customers flying United Polaris business class have access to the airline's six award-winning United Polaris lounges across the system.

"We already deliver a superior international experience and fly to the most places across the Atlantic and Pacific - these new innovations provide a more premium experience overall, give customers even more reasons to choose United, and set our airline up to grow into the next decade and beyond," said Andrew Nocella, EVP and Chief Commercial Officer at United. "We never stand still and are always looking for more ways to set ourselves apart from other carriers. And we're confident this elevated experience will take international flying to new heights."

The reimagined Elevated interior on the 787-9 includes a nose-to-tail transformation - refined finishes and a fresher, brighter and warmer feel throughout - with something for everyone: 99 total premium seats - the highest percentage among U.S. carriers, United Premium Plus seats with privacy dividers and wireless charging, and a United Economy® cabin with Bluetooth connectivity and the largest Economy class seatback screens in the world.

United has invested more than $150 million in total food and beverage improvements this year alone, and planes with the United Elevated interior will include access to a new, onboard grab-and-go snack bar for United Polaris business class customers that offers treats from brands like Garretts, Community, and Joe & Seph's, as well as United Polaris Studio-specific options like an amuse-bouche of Ossetra caviar paired with Champagne Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Rosé. The airline also will introduce mid-flight meal options that include a regionally influenced tapas service. And customers in United Economy® will see expanded dining options with three entrée choices, new desserts, and an appetizer course.

United expects to take delivery of the first United 787-9 with the Elevated interior before the end of 2025 with the first international passenger flights planned in 2026 from San Francisco to Singapore and San Francisco to London. United is the largest carrier across the Atlantic and Pacific* and flies to 147 total international destinations. All of United's future 787 deliveries will get United Polaris Studio suites and Elevated interiors, and the airline expects about 30 of these planes to join its fleet by 2027.

Aircraft with the Elevated interior will also be among the first United widebody planes to have free Starlink connectivity for United MileagePlus members. The service is ideal for international travel as it delivers fast, reliable internet access around the world, including over oceans, polar regions, and other remote locations previously unreachable by traditional cell or Wi-Fi signals.

The first deliveries of 787-9 aircraft with the Elevated interior will include:

Eight United Polaris business class Studio suites

Two rows across two sections, 1-2-1 configuration

56 United Polaris business class suites

14 rows, across two sections, in a 1-2-1 configuration

Customers can choose between seats that face the window or center of the aircraft (ideal for individual travelers) and seats where all the suites face the aisle (perfect for those flying together)

35 United Premium Plus seats, the most in United's fleet

5 rows in a 2-3-2 configuration

33 United Economy Plus seats and 90 United Economy seats

15 total rows in a 3-3-3 configuration

The carrier's 787-9s currently have 48 United Polaris seats, 21 United Premium Plus seats, 39 United Economy Plus seats and 149 United Economy seats.

United Polaris Studio

Located in the first row of each business class section, United Polaris Studio will be priced differently than standard United Polaris and includes superior features and design elements. United Polaris Studio suites are larger and include an ottoman with a seatbelt for companions in six of the eight seats. Each United Polaris Studio suite also has a huge, 27-inch, 4K OLED touchscreen - the largest among U.S. carriers, Bluetooth connectivity, wireless charging as well as separate USB-C and electrical outlets. The suite also includes digital seat control options, quartzite tables, a soft, wool-blend seat and wood grain trim.

United Polaris Studio amenities are also upgraded, and include exclusive hoodie-pajamas and slippers on all flights, new noise-cancelling headphones powered by Meridian technology, amenity kits featuring clinically formulated Perricone MD Cold Plasma Plus+ luxury skincare products, United-branded playing cards (ideal for passing the time with someone in the ottoman seat), a plush velvet throw pillow on the ottoman as well as Saks Fifth Avenue bedding that includes a duvet, day blanket, large pillow and cooling gel pillow.

And customers who book a United Polaris Studio suite have access to the airline's Global Reception® area, receive preferred boarding alongside United Global Services® customers and are eligible for United's tarmac transfer program.

United Polaris

The new standard United Polaris suites on aircraft with the Elevated interior are also upgraded with the addition of sliding doors, a 19-inch 4K OLED touchscreen with Bluetooth, four ways to charge devices including wireless, and digital seat controls. Each United Polaris suite offers all-aisle access, and breathable, wool-blend covered seats. And in a first among U.S. airlines, customers can choose between seats that face the window or the center of the aircraft, more suited for individual travelers who want even more privacy, or seats that face the aisle that have a divider that lowers all the way down to bed height - perfect for people flying together.

The famous United Polaris sundae cart also gets an upgrade with a rotation of limited time featured Tillamook ice cream flavors coupled with new toppings that will run throughout the year, alongside the customer favorite staple - classic vanilla bean.

United Premium Plus and United Economy

The United Premium Plus seats on aircraft with the Elevated interior also get a major upgrade by adding elements normally reserved for United Polaris customers including soft-touch materials, quartzite cocktail tables and a 16-inch 4K OLED screen. Customers also will enjoy Bluetooth and three ways to charge their personal devices, including wireless - the first time offered in United Premium Plus. The seats also include a dedicated water bottle and headphone holders, as well as a privacy divider with a built-in reading light - also a first for United Premium Plus.

United Economy Plus and United Economy customers on aircraft with the Elevated interior will all enjoy 13-inch, 4K OLED screens - the largest Economy class screens in the world. These cabins also include Bluetooth connectivity in every seat and six power outlets per row. Bringing in the same refreshed looks and feel from United's UPP cabin, customers in United Economy will be able to relax thanks to the seat's cradling seat bottom that moves as the seat reclines.

The special food and beverage offerings that will be onboard Elevated aircraft build on the work already underway to enhance the dining experience for all United customers. United Polaris wine offerings are currently among the most premium of any U.S. airline, featuring exclusive relationships with brands like Heitz Cellar, Shafer Vineyards, Stony Hill Vineyard and Champagne Laurent-Perrier and rotating offerings from Domaine Serene, Chateau Beaucastel, VIK and The Mascot. United Polaris customers will also soon see more regional menus that rotate monthly as well as new breakfast breads, bottled salad dressings, updated mid-flight snack baskets and the addition of an Aperol Spritz to the drink menu. And international economy customers will soon enjoy enhancements like fresh salads with premium dressing, more entrée choices, new desserts and a coursed appetizer that's served before full lunch/dinner.

Finally, United has launched new menus and completely overhauled onboard dishware with new dishes, glassware, cutlery, linens and seasonings - including red pepper flakes

More Flights From Canada To The Islands Of The Bahamas This Summer And Fall

The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation announces new and expanded airlift options from Canada making it easier than ever for Canadian travelers to experience the beauty and culture of the islands.

Air Canada is introducing new, nonstop flights from Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW) and Halifax-Stanfield International Airport (YHZ) to Nassau’s Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) this winter, with the addition of weekly flights starting Friday, 5 Dec. 2025 through 10 Apr. 2026.

Commencing on 20 June through 29 Aug., Air Canada will resume weekly nonstop flights from Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL) to Nassau’s Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS). Operating every Friday, the Airbus A220seasonal service will provide additional fast and convenient service to the excitement of Nassau and Paradise Island.

Air Canada will continue to provide service from Toronto’s Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to Nassau’s Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) six to seven times per week.

Air Canada Vacations’ flights from Toronto’s Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to Georgetown, Exuma (GGT) is also scheduled to resume November 2025 through April 2026.

“Air Canada continues to demonstrate their commitment to expanding air travel from Canada to The Bahamas,” said Hon. I. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation. “It also reflects the eagerness of Canadians to travel to The Bahamas. We look forward to welcoming even more visitors from eastern Canada, to experience the warmth of our people, beauty, and culture of our islands this summer, next fall, and beyond."

Sunwing Vacations also announced that their seasonal flights from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to Grand Bahama International Airport (FPO) will be extended to year-round weekly service as of this summer.

Sunwing will also continue to operate their nonstop flights from Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport Airport (YUL) to Grand Bahama International Airport (FPO) on a year round basis, with weekly Saturday flights.

Latia Duncombe, Director General, BMOTIA added: “Canada remains a priority growth market for The Bahamas, and the expansion of the airlift by our longstanding partners reflects the sustained demand for our destination. These enhanced routes from key Canadian cities strengthen our connectivity, improve accessibility, and support our broader strategy to drive year-round visitation across the islands.”

In addition to the Montreal/Nassau route this summer, Canadians can also opt for the nonstop charter offered by Club Med (every Tuesday through 29 July), to experience their all-inclusive Columbus Isle Resort on San Salvador.

For the latest travel information and inspiration, visit www.bahamas.com.

How Trump's Tariff War Could Impact Cruise Ships And Cruise Tourism

President Trump's latest trade war has impacted all countries and industries, including the travel sector. But how are cruise lines doing? While U.S. tourism collapses under global trade tensions and international travel to America drops sharply, cruise lines seem largely unbothered. Of course, the new tariffs are impacting the cruise industry, yet many believe there's no reason to panic.

However, from the passengers' perspective, some things may change. Cruise lines may alter their itineraries, and heading abroad may become more costly. Has President Trump's tariff war impacted the cruising industry and its passengers, and what are the opinions of some of the industry's most important CEOs?

Following Trump's New Tariffs, Major Cruise Lines Reported Stock Price Drops

"It all started in February when Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick suggested stopping cruise line companies from registering their ships in foreign countries to avoid taxes. You ever see a cruise ship with an American flag on the back? None of them pay taxes ... every supertanker. None pay taxes ... all foreign alcohol. No taxes. This is going to end under Donald Trump."

These words led many investors to sell their stocks, even though experts called this an overreaction. Secretary Howard Lutnick wasn't the first to propose this new measure, as this idea has been repeatedly brought up for over 15 years with no changes whatsoever. However, cruise line stocks fell sharply again in April when Trump officially announced his new tariffs.

Fall in stock prices after Trump's new tariffs (April 3rd)

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings 16%

Carnival Corporation 13.69%

Royal Caribbean Group 11.04%,

Viking Cruises 8.65%

Lindblad Expeditions 10.14%

The world's leading cruise lines reported significant drops. According to experts, this was the most significant one-day wipeout since the 2020 pandemic. So, how can the recent economic instability affect passengers?

How Will Cruise Passengers Be Affected By Trump's Trade War?

Following Trump's trade war, the U.S. dollar started to lose value, causing negative consequences for Americans traveling abroad. Vacationers on a cruise will notice that dollars can buy less in foreign countries worldwide compared to a few months ago.

In addition, passengers may expect itinerary changes. For instance, some Canadians have reacted to the trade war by deciding not to vacation in the USA again. This isn't surprising, as tension between the two countries is now incredibly high. Not by chance, the Canadian government has recently updated its U.S. travel advisory, warning travelers to 'expect scrutiny' and inspections of electronic devices.

Commenting on the current situation, in an interview with the New York Times, Vinod Agarwal, a professor of economics at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, declared:

"Canadians who want to travel to the Caribbean may not want to go through the U.S. anymore."

However, the problem is not only with Canada. More recently, New Zealand has reconsidered its travel advisory for the U.S. after eight Kiwis were detained at the border under the new immigration laws. The current economic instability may also affect the prices of services on board. While some suggest booking as soon as possible, others believe some people may cancel their trip due to the current economic crisis, leading to more availability. Despite everything, cruise lines' CEOs remain positive.

Cruise Line CEOs Remain Positive Despite Economic Insecurity

At a summit held a few days after Trump's trade war, representatives of some of the world's major cruise lines gathered to discuss the industry's state. Most CEOs seemed to maintain a positive attitude.

For instance, Josh Weinstein, Carnival Chief Executive Officer of Carnival Corporation, declared that even though the season was 'choppy' and 'inconsistent,' the company had registered a new record for future year's bookings. When asked whether cruise lines would be negatively affected by the new tariffs, Josh Weinstein declared:

"The short answer is no, for various reasons. (...) Because of how we could resource a lot locally and we also go to different places, we're not we're not landlocked, so to speak."

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings' Harry Sommer agreed by adding:

"Two shaky days in the stock market do not lead us to change our long-term strategy,"

John Weinstein, however, also stressed that, at the moment, nobody truly knows what the industry's future will look like, as companies can't predict with absolute certainty how people will react to economic instability.

While Trump's trade war has already impacted the tourism sector in several ways, the cruising industry seems immune, at least for now. While some itinerary changes may occur and prices may fluctuate, experts believe the industry won't be affected by the current economic instability.

https://www.thetravel.com/author/cristina-miceli/