United Airlines says it's offering select premium ticketed passengers with a luxury 'tarmac' transfer with the help of BMW.
At certain United hub airports - currently Chicago, Denver, Houston, LA, San Francisco and Washington - premium passengers can benefit from a chauffeur-driven transfer in a BMW electric vehicle directly to the gate of their next flight.
United this summer carried out a pilot of this new BMW-partnered service, with 14,000 transfers completed at its US airport hubs, and, the airline said it would now expand operations.
“This summer, our ground transfer program with BMW of North America showed how seamless, premium journeys create real value for our MileagePlus members – helping thousands connect with less stress and more comfort,” said Richard Nunn, CEO of United's premium-service MileagePlus.
“BMW of North America’s commitment to innovation, luxury and sustainability further extends our program’s value, giving members elevated travel experiences that feel effortless and rewarding, while underscoring United’s commitment to delivering thoughtful, forward-looking solutions.”
The service is complimentary for eligible members and aims to smooth tight connections while adding a dash of comfort that feels more first-class than frantic. Guests are met at the gate by a Premier Services agent and escorted directly to a waiting vehicle for the short drive to their next flight.
United’s fleet of transfer EVs currently include BMW i7 xDrive60 sedans, and BMW iX M70 SUVs.
“Teaming up with United offers an opportunity to show what true luxury feels like in the modern era,” said Shaun Bugbee, BMW North America executive vice president.
For guests, the takeaway is simple: if you’re a MileagePlus Premier member connecting at a participating hub, you may be tapped for a surprise tarmac lift in a top-spec EV. If you're lucky enough to experience it, the service promises a serious upgrade in comfort and convenience when making flight connections.
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Who is eligible for United’s BMW tarmac transfers?
United MileagePlus Premier members are selectively offered complimentary chauffeured transfers between gates during tight connections at participating hubs.
Which airports offer the United x BMW gate-to-gate service?
United’s BMW tarmac transfers currently operate at Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C. hubs.
What vehicles are used and how does the transfer work?
United uses all-electric BMW i7 xDrive60 sedans and BMW iX M70 SUVs; a Premier services agent meets you at the gate and escorts you to a waiting vehicle for the ride to your connecting flight.
