Flair Unveils B2B Strategy with New Tour Operator and Expanded Options
Flair Airlines is poised for significant growth as it introduces a comprehensive B2B strategy, expanding its offerings to better serve travel agents and agencies. The Edmonton-based carrier recently hosted an event in Toronto to highlight its fresh initiatives and partnerships aimed at enhancing customer experience.
Flair’s New Initiatives
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, Flair Airlines is implementing a suite of new services under its “Flair FWD” strategy. This initiative focuses on optimizing the travel experience by introducing features like an On-Time Guarantee, digital meal credits, and improved online systems.
B2B Strategy and Tour Operator Division
To strengthen its connections with travel professionals, Flair recently launched its B2B program. This includes a dedicated sales team and a new travel agency portal, designed to facilitate bookings.
- Agents receive a 3% commission on base fares and ancillaries, enhancing their profitability.
- The portal allows modifications to reservations and client names up to 48 hours before departure.
- Flair is also re-entering the charter flight market, previously its founding service.
As part of its diversification, Flair is launching “Flair Vacations” in collaboration with the HBX Group. This new tour operator division will offer all-inclusive vacation packages, starting in December 2023.
- Destinations include Mexico and Jamaica.
- Packages will consist of airfare, hotel stays, and transfers, with optional excursions available.
Enhanced Customer Experience
In response to customer feedback, Flair is introducing “Flair Express” on December 3, aimed at improving luggage handling and streamlining the boarding process. Passengers purchasing a carry-on bag will enjoy priority boarding and won’t need to fit their bags into size checkers.
Additionally, Flair is revamping its fare bundles, offering multiple options to suit different travel needs. The upcoming service will include:
- Basic: Personal item only
- Lite: Carry-on and Flair Express
- Plus: Checked bag and personal item
- MAX: All-inclusive package
Flair will also be the first airline in North America to introduce a ticket resale service, allowing customers to recoup a portion of their fares if unable to travel, thereby providing more flexibility and customer satisfaction.
Looking Ahead
Flair is making strides to redefine its brand image by moving beyond the ultra-low-cost airline model. The new upgrades reflect a commitment to improved service and customer engagement, challenging existing perceptions of the airline.
With a fleet of 20 aircraft and a strong performance in on-time departures (89.2% last month), Flair is focused on providing reliable and affordable air travel solutions. “This is the new Flair,” emphasized company officials, dedicated to repositioning the airline within the competitive air travel landscape.
As Flair explores new markets and strengthens its offerings, the airline is set to become a significant player in the Canadian travel industry. The interactive exhibition, “Flair FWD: An Exhibition in Art & Flight,” will remain open to the public until October 31 at Twist Gallery in Toronto, showing Flair’s commitment to both flight and culture.
