Enhancing frequent flyer programs with eSIM connectivity

Connectivity is no longer a luxury — it's a necessity.

Airlines have the unique opportunity to transform and differentiate their loyalty programs beyond traditional rewards. Instead, they can add and deliver seamless, high-value travel experiences. eSIM technology provides a relevant and practical solution that enhances the customer journey while strengthening brand loyalty.

Integrating eSIMs into airline loyalty programs presents an avenue to boost customer satisfaction, increase engagement, and unlock new revenue streams.

In this article, we'll share how eSIMs can be introduced into frequent flyer programs, and how these partnerships are redefining the travel experience through innovative technology.

eSIMs rewards and airlines: A partnership to revolutionize frequent flyer programs

Airlines are the first stop for travelers when planning their trips. They connect people to new destinations, help fulfill bucket lists, and reunite families and friends.

Yet, upon arrival, staying connected abroad remains a top priority for travelers. Connectivity allows them to research their destination, stay in touch with loved ones, and share their experiences in real-time. 

This is where airlines and eSIMs form the perfect partnership. 

Tony Kaldas, Director of Partnerships for Arabia & Africa, has over 17 years of experience scaling travel technology across global markets, and built success from understanding the nuances of building impactful partnerships and driving growth.

He shares his thoughts about the benefits of eSIMs in loyalty programs:

"Rewarding eSIM purchases with points or miles encourages repeat transactions, a strategy proven to increase customer retention by up to 20% in points-based programs. Customers are more inclined to buy when there's points or miles reward, and offering eSIMs as a redemption option further solidifies loyalty."

Including eSIMs in loyalty programs encourages frequent flyers to rely on an airline's ecosystem for travel essentials beyond flights. This fosters familiarity and reliance on a centralized location for travel organization.

With eSIMs, you offer the gift of connectivity to travelers. They can message loved ones, explore with confidence, and avoid high roaming costs. Every traveler has faced the challenge of staying connected abroad. Be the solution to this problem. Enhance the customer journey by making connectivity effortless.

👀 Elevating travel: How eSIMs drive airline innovation and customer loyalty

Benefits of adding eSIMs to loyalty programs

eSIMs make a strong addition to loyalty programs, offering a practical, trip-enhancing solution. They’re timely, relevant, and meet travelers’ need to stay connected abroad.

Tony adds, 

"eSIMs provide a unique opportunity for loyalty programs to deepen customer engagement. By integrating Airalo's global connectivity to banks, hotels, and airlines can offer their members immediate, cost-effective mobile access."

By offering eSIMs, you can:

• Enhance customer satisfaction: Travelers have a compelling reason to remain loyal to an airline that offers a tangible benefit that directly improves their trip experience.
• Extend the customer experience: Enhance the customer journey beyond the flight. Upon arrival, customers can connect immediately, thanks to eSIM connectivity.
• Provide seamless and instant connection abroad: eSIMs eliminate the need for travelers to rely on unreliable Wi-Fi, high roaming costs, or physical SIM cards.
• Increase loyalty: Boost engagement by offering a tangible and valuable benefit that enhances the customer experience.

👀 How travel brands can build customer loyalty with eSIMs

What does a partnership between an eSIM provider and a frequent flyer program look like? 

Airalo Partners offers flexible solutions to integrate eSIMs into your loyalty and frequent flyer programs. For airlines, adding eSIMs enhances the customer experience beyond the flight itself. 

Travelers need to stay connected abroad. Airlines can now offer this service and boost their brand appeal by offering eSIMs. An eSIM partnership rewards customers to earn miles with every package purchased. 

For example, frequent flyer members can earn miles for every dollar they spend on Airalo eSIMs.

eSIMs and frequent flyer partnerships in action

Gulf Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain, transports approximately 8 million passengers annually, connecting travelers to destinations across its expanding network in the Middle East, Asia, and Europe.

Airalo partnered with Gulf Air to reward FalconFlyer members. Now, members can enter their FalconFlyer number at checkout to earn miles with every eSIM purchase. This partnership ensures seamless connectivity while rewarding travelers along the way.

The process is seamless and requires no additional steps from members. By simply entering their FalconFlyer number at checkout, Gulf Air automatically tracks the miles, enabling travelers to stay connected effortlessly.

Why join Airalo Partners?

Airalo Partners is trusted by over 5,000 partners worldwide. Our team leverages extensive experience in the travel and tourism industry, combined with cutting-edge eSIM technology, to build cross-industry partnerships that transform the way companies enhance travel experiences for their users.

Why airlines trust us to deliver eSIM services:

• World's leading eSIM provider: Airalo offers global coverage, ensuring that wherever your customers fly, they stay connected. We provide a variety of eSIM packages tailored to different travel needs — whether for short stays, extended trips, or multi-destination journeys — allowing travelers to choose the right plan based on data usage, duration, and location. 
• A recognized and loved brand: With over 10 million users worldwide, Airalo is a trusted name in connectivity. We take great pride in keeping people connected, no matter where their travels take them. Don't just take our word for it — our Apple App Store rating is 4.7 stars.
• Dedicated partner support: Our commitment to our partners goes beyond words. We provide dedicated account management and comprehensive onboarding resources to ensure a smooth and successful integration.
• Worldwide customer support: We offer 24/7 customer support for eSIM troubleshooting. With support in over 53 languages, we ensure your customers have a seamless and satisfying experience. 
• Safety and security: We are dedicated to safeguarding your data and privacy. As a SOC 2 Type II compliant company, we continuously work to protect your data with the highest security standards.

Ready to reward your frequent flyers?

Partner with Airalo and take your airline's loyalty program to the next level. Offer seamless connectivity, reward your frequent flyers, and create a smarter, more engaging travel experience.

Join today