Keynote Lecture : “State of the Airline Industry Friendlier Skies for Consumers"

FLYING THE FRIENDLY SKIES

Article by: Manu Shah

The Keynote Lecture with Speaker Dave Hilfman, Senior VP of Sales, United Airlines saw a record turnout of members and guests eager to hear what the “friendly skies airline” was doing to enhance the traveler’s flying experience. The Keynote Speaker, minutes into his address, charmed the audience as he updated the gathering on the ongoing efforts being made by United to achieve the number one spot in the US airline industry. United was the first US airline to fly nonstop to India and IACCGH is proud to have played a role in this success.

Here are some of the ways United intends to elevate the customer experience in their own words.
“It’s an exciting time for United and our customers! We’re elevating every aspect of our customers’ experience, from adding new routes to creating a spectacular premium travel experience to upgrading our facilities worldwide.

We offer the world’s most comprehensive route network, with 4,500 flights a day to 337 airports on five continents – and we added 60 new routes this year alone. We’re the only U.S. carrier flying between the United States and India, with daily flights to both Delhi and Mumbai from New York / Newark. Through our award-winning Newark global gateway hub, customers enjoy connections to hundreds of cities and an exemplary terminal experience, with revolutionary in-terminal shopping and dining.

Our new United Polaris premium travel product takes international travel to new heights on the ground and in the air. Our exclusive United Polaris lounge offers an oasis to relax or work, shower facilities and elevated a la carte dining. Our first lounge location is now open in Chicago O’Hare, with additional lounges planned for airports in London, Newark, and San Francisco opening in 2018.

On board, enjoy gourmet dining created in partnership with The Trotter Project’s critically acclaimed chefs and get an actual good night’s rest with sleep-focused amenities including Saks Fifth Avenue luxury bedding. Our new United Polaris business class seats feature direct aisle access and a 180-degree flat-bed – offering ultimate comfort and privacy.

You’ll also find a best-in-class experience in our airports. Our Houston and Chicago hubs have been “banked”, improving connectivity and providing greater access to more destinations. Houston’s Terminal C North underwent a complete transformation, with a $277 million terminal remodel featuring roomier gate areas, the latest technology, and chef-inspired dining choices. Upgraded facilities are now available and coming soon in San Francisco and Los Angeles.

As always, our number one goal is to provide a safe and reliable operation. We’re proud to have finished the second quarter as the # 1 airline amongst our key U.S. global network peers in completion percentage, on-time departures, and on-time arrivals.

We look forward to welcoming you into the friendly skies soon.”

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Photography by Bijay Dixit