United Airlines is trialling a new mobile app which allows members to use their smartphones to pay for items at US retailers, and earn Mileage Plus miles for their purchases.
At present the new app has only been released to a select group of Mileage Plus members, but the carrier says it plans to extend it to all members and offer more retailers soon.
The iOS and Android Mileage Plus X app allows users to browse for nearby participating retailers (which currently include Lowe’s, Sears, Gap and AMC Theatres), and view the amount of miles they can earn on purchases.
Members enter the total dollar amount of their purchase into the app at the checkout, and a digital merchant gift card is created. The cashier then scans the barcode to complete the transaction.
The app automatically syncs with the payment card stored in the user’s Mileage Plus account, and miles are instantly added to the member’s account.
"The new MileagePlus X app builds on the increasing popularity of mobile purchasing, enabling members to make in-store purchases and earn miles without having to pull out a credit card," said Praveen Sharma, United's vice president of loyalty.
The carrier said it plans to add more features to the app in future, including the ability to redeem miles against in-store purchases.
Mark Caswell
