Emirates and SriLankan Airlines Launch Skywards a Unique Frequent Flyer Program

Business Wire, May 30, 2000

Business Editors/Aviation Writers

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 30, 2000

Frequent travelers with Emirates and SriLankan Airlines can now earn miles when they fly with either carrier and exchange these for free travel, seat upgrades and other exciting benefits.

This comes with the launch of Skywards - the industry's latest and most unique frequent flyer program - which commences worldwide from May 29.

Both Emirates and SriLankan have positioned Skywards as more than just a miles-for-miles program, but as a world-class business and travel club for the airlines' most loyal customers, that extends benefits beyond the times a member flies. For example, members in the elite tiers are admitted into a prestigious Skywards business Alumnus, enjoy a one-stop shop concierge service, and have access to airport lounges even if flying Economy.

Skywards miles can also be earned with selected international partner airlines, the Emirates-owned Al Maha Desert Resort in Dubai, Budget Rent A Car, with each usage of the Skywards Citibank co-branded credit card and selected international hotel chains including Hilton International, Le Meridien Hotels & Resorts, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, Marriott Hotels, Resorts & Suites, Radisson/SAS Hotels & Resorts, Sofitel Hotels & Resorts, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Taj Group of Hotels and The Jumeirah Beach Hotel Group, Dubai.

Skywards comprises three tier levels: Skywards, Skywards Silver and Skywards Gold. As it is one program for both airlines, miles flown on either Emirates or SriLankan will count towards the tier level - offering passengers a wider choice to earn and redeem miles. In addition, miles can also be earned on partner airlines: Continental Airlines, United Airlines, British Airways and South African Airways.

Other partners in the program who extend the same privileges include 20 hotels, Arabian Adventures, Budget Rent A Car and the Skywards Citibank co-branded credit card.

To serve members, Emirates and SriLankan have set up five service centers in Dubai, Colombo, Manchester, Melbourne and New York City.

Membership status is based on tier miles accrued or sectors completed over a calendar year. As tier miles are accumulated, members can be upgraded to the next tier.

For information on partner lists, destination guides, calendar of events by Emirates and SriLankan, access Skywards' website, http://www.skywards.com.

For more information, contact Emirates' New York Service Center, telephone, 1-800-762-9775 (USA and Canada), fax: 1-718-706-9031, address: 45-18 Court Square, Suite 402, Long Island City, NY 11101.