Cityjet introduces new Premium Economy across network

[sn26567]

CityJet, London’s business airline, is introducing a new premium economy offer across its entire network which replaces its current business class offer. Entitled CityPlus, the new product launches on 15 February 2010.

CityPlus has been designed to appeal to frequent business flyers that require value for money, flexibility and priority service from the point of booking to disembarkation.

The new CityPlus offer is part of a new two-tier pricing structure - CityPlus, a fully flexible fare; and CityValue, traditional economy class offering refundable and non-refundable fare options. The CityPlus offer includes:

Booking

■ fully flexible fares,
■ full refund on cancellation or no-show,
■ free name changes
■ two pieces of hold luggage and free carriage of golf equipment
■ increased Flying Blue loyalty points*

At the airport

■ dedicated check-in
■ fast track security where available
■ priority boarding and disembarkation
■ lounge access **

Onboard

■ front cabin seating***
■ complimentary welcome drink and meal
■ choice of complimentary newspapers and seasonal gift

Says Geoffrey O’Byrne White, CEO, CityJet, ‘In today’s climate, businesses are demanding convenience, full flexibility and priority service but at a value for money price.

The new CityPlus premium economy offer delivers exactly that with extra services such as dedicated check-in and lounge access. We've seen an increase in passenger numbers recently, but old-fashioned business class no longer corresponds to what our customers want. CityPlus is designed to meet our customers' needs, at an affordable price.’

Cityjet press release 15/02/2010

[sn26567]

CityPlus/CityValue looks furiously like b.flex/b.light!

Meanwhile, their business class has been scrapped altogether!

[FlightMate]

Probably a decision taken last year, with changes implemented now.

And in a few months, we will see a "CityBusiness", like the b.business.

[Buzz]

It's just what most short-haul airlines are doing. They just rename business class into economy plus, because most business customers are told by their company they have to fly economy due to the economic crisis.

Same product, probably more or less the same prices, just a different name.