The Smart Marty Sky Dispatch
Pilot for European carrier Lufthansa spars with SFO
A Lufthansa pilot was recently peeved by a 17-minute delay at SFO.
The Lufthansa Group is expanding its European reach by moving to acquire a stake in TAP Air Portugal, as Portugal advances privatization efforts. The bid, approved by the Portuguese government for an initial 44.9% stake, values the deal at more than $1.3 billion with an option to push the stake to 49.9%.
The deal comes as Lufthansa strengthens its tie to the European market, joining ITA Airways and its existing network that includes Lufthansa, Swiss, Austrian, Brussels Airlines, Eurowings and Discover Airlines. Separate discussions are also reported to be progressing regarding the remaining 50.1% stake in TAP.
A separate development at San Francisco International Airport involves a new ground transfer option for Sonoma County travelers. Beginning November 17, Landline will operate a “Straight to Gate” service, allowing passengers to check in and clear security at Santa Rosa’s Charles M. Schulz Airport before motorcoaching directly to SFO terminals about 75 miles away.
The Santa Rosa service is initially limited to specific airlines and operates eight daily round trips to SFO with a one-way fare of $55. United, Alaska, Hawaiian, American and JetBlue are listed as initial participating carriers, with more airlines expected to join in the coming months. The transfer option aims to minimize recheck and security steps for eligible travelers.
In related airline program changes, United Airlines is overhauling its loyalty structure for 2027 by simplifying elite status to solely Premier qualifying points, ending Premier qualifying flights. The airline will require a minimum of four United or United Express flights in 2027 to qualify for status, with updated PQP thresholds for Silver, Gold, Platinum and 1K levels.
Southwest Airlines is likewise revamping its Rapid Rewards program for 2027, introducing a new Platinum top tier and converting existing A-List and A-List Preferred statuses to Silver and Gold. A new benefit under Platinum will be unlimited Companion Pass trips, and earning will shift to Tier Qualifying Points and flights, with new earning for credit-card purchases beginning January.