US Airways and United Take Next Step in Code-Share Agreement: Reciprocal Airport Lounge Access and Interline E-Ticketing

The first elements of the code-share agreement between US Airways and United Airlines are being initiated early this week, with the introduction of reciprocal airport lounge access between the two carriers’ Club programs, and interline electronic ticketing. Other components of the alliance will be implemented over the next several months.

Beginning today, members of both the US Airways Club and United Red Carpet Club are welcome to use any of the 70 facilities in 17 countries worldwide offered by the two airlines. A member need only show a same-day ticket of the host airline to take advantage of that airline’s Club facilities. This requirement is consistent with United’s agreement with its Star alliance partners for reciprocal lounge access.

The US Airways Club and the United Red Carpet Club offer similar amenities, including semi-private workspaces with work area/desk, phone and dataport outlets, fax machine, copier and document shredder, an assortment of magazines, daily newspapers and televisions featuring the latest news programming, and complimentary assorted snacks, coffee, tea, sodas along with specialty coffee drinks (cappuccino, espresso, mocha). Beer, wine and cocktails can be purchased for a nominal fee.

US Airways Club membership is not valid for access to United International First and Business lounges or Star Alliance facilities. United Red Carpet Club membership does not allow access to US Airways’ First and Envoy Class international departure lounges.

Effective Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2002, US Airways and United will introduce interline electronic ticketing. This enhancement will allow customers to use a single electronic ticket when their itineraries include travel on both carriers, providing a simpler and more seamless travel experience.

Customers with electronic tickets also may rebook on US Airways and United flights – if the need arises – without first having to obtain a paper ticket. Previously, customers with electronic tickets were required to convert to a paper ticket before transferring between carriers. That’s because neither airline had access to the other’s electronic ticket database. Interline electronic ticketing changes this by bridging the two different airline computer systems, allowing access to electronically stored information. 

Interline electronic tickets can be issued by both US Airways and United through their respective reservations centers, airports and ticket offices. Also, under this agreement, passengers whose flights are canceled can present their electronic ticket confirmation and a picture ID at the other airline’s ticket counter and be rebooked.