Oneworld and The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) have launched what both organisations describe as the first loyalty partnership between a global airline alliance and a hotel group.
The agreement connects Oneworld’s global airline loyalty network with IHCL’s Taj InnerCircle - NeuPass programme and portfolio of more than 630 hotels across four continents.
Effective immediately, members holding Oneworld Emerald, Sapphire and Ruby status through participating airline frequent flyer programmes will receive preferential room rates and tier-based benefits at participating IHCL properties booked through dedicated channels.
The partnership covers IHCL brands including Taj Hotels, Claridges Collection, Brij, SeleQtions, Gateway, Vivanta, Ginger, Tree of Life and amã Stays & Trails.
Benefits include discounts on room rates, dining and non-alcoholic beverages, as well as spa treatments. Oneworld Emerald members will receive 15% savings, while Sapphire and Ruby members will receive 10% discounts.
The two groups also plan to synchronise loyalty status recognition between both programmes. Under the arrangement, Oneworld Emerald members will be matched to Taj InnerCircle - NeuPass Gold status, while Ruby and Sapphire members will receive Silver status.
Conversely, Taj InnerCircle - NeuPass Gold and Platinum members with a frequent flyer membership from a Oneworld airline will be matched to Oneworld Sapphire status, while Copper and Silver members will receive Oneworld Ruby status.
The companies said they are also exploring future opportunities for members to earn airline loyalty points on hotel stays across selected Oneworld airline programmes.
According to Oneworld, around 10 million international passengers travel to and from India annually on member airlines. The alliance currently serves 17 Indian cities through 11 member carriers, connecting the country with destinations across Asia, Europe, North America and the Middle East.