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United Airlines moves to cash-free for onboard purchases

9th September 2009 Print
United Airlines has announced that effective September 2, the airline will accept only credit and debit cards for most onboard purchases on trans-Atlantic flights and on flights to and from Brazil and Argentina.

To speed cabin service, provide receipts and increase efficiency, cash will no longer be accepted onboard these flights, except for duty-free purchases.

United introduced the popular EasyPurchase initiative worldwide in March, and ceased accepting cash in April on flights within the United States (including Hawaii) and on flights to and from Canada, Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean.

Feedback provided by thousands of customers in online surveys demonstrated wide acceptance for a cash-free environment. "Customers appreciate the simplicity and the speed with which cashless transactions can be done onboard," said Lynda Coffman, managing director-Onboard Design and Strategy.

Customers on all United flights can use major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, and Diners Club, and debit cards bearing the Visa or MasterCard logos.

United will continue to accept cash in addition to credit and debit cards on flights to and from Asia. Also, cash will continue to be the accepted form of payment on United Express flights.

Users of United Mileage Plus Visa cards from Chase will earn 10 miles for every dollar spent on in-flight purchases. Travelers who apply and are approved for a Chase Mileage Plus Visa card using the exclusive onboard application will earn 30,000 Mileage Plus bonus miles and receive a $100 United discount travel certificate after their first purchase.