SAS-owned carrier Blue1 has launched a Premium product aimed at the cost-conscious business traveller, with benefits including lounge access, fast-track security and flexible ticketing.
The Helsinki-based regional carrier has dropped its Economy Extra offering in favour of a quasi-business class product under the name Blue1 Premium.
The new class offers passenger benefits including flight changes at no additional charge, advanced seat selection, premium check-in and fast-track security, lounge access (on European flights), an enhanced meal service and two pieces of checked luggage.
Blue1 competes with Finnair and British Airways on flights between London Heathrow and Helsinki, a route which it serves twice-daily, and its new Premium fares start from £536 return, which Blue1 says is between £100 and £300 cheaper than the standard fully flexible business class fare with the two legacy carriers.
In addition to the new offering Blue1 has recently taken delivery of its first refurbished B717 aircraft which are now plying the Heathrow-Helsinki route.
The 115-seater aircraft has five-across seating, and features the carrier’s new livery designed by the Aalto University School of Art and Design. The “Flowing” theme is being gradually implemented across the Blue1 fleet.
Blue1 is a regional member of the Star Alliance, with SAS being a full member.
For more information visit blue1.com.
Report by Mark Caswell