Air France-KLM says to revamp frequent-flyer scheme

Air France-KLM said Monday it is overhauling its Flying Blue frequent-flyer programme, hoping to increase its contribution to sales. The airline group said it had spent 2 years and E15m on IT to overhaul Flying Blue, the joint loyalty programme of Air France and KLM with 15m active members. From next April members will earn miles based on the amount they spend on their ticket rather than the distance flown, with status members receiving more miles per euro spent. Status levels will also no longer be earned by racking up a specific number of flights. Members will instead collect more points for longer flights and for those in premium cabins. The two airlines earn nearly 55% of their revenue from loyalty schemes including corporate contracts with companies and the Flying Blue programme. <br/>