Executive Travel : Dollar to Leave Flier Plans
From Dow Jones News Service
Dollar Rent A Car is withdrawing from most airline frequent-flier programs in favor of its own frequent-renter plan.
The car rental company said it is being squeezed by higher costs, particularly the price of new cars for its fleet, and that its participation in frequent-flier programs has been eroding what little profit margin it has.
However, the company will join America West Airlines’ FlightFund program Jan. 1. It said that program is considerably less expensive than other airline plans.
Dollar said its research has shown that customers are more interested in good rates, in-terminal service and fast, courteous employees than in frequent-flier programs.
The company said its frequent-renter program is expected to be in place by March.
