Once upon a time, United Airlines promoted Hawaii as "our little corner of the world." They offered mai tais on board ... flight attendants were outfitted in aloha wear ... and there was special advertising that featured the destination.
Over the years, United seems to have lost its love for the islands. At one time, bonus upgrades and certificates specified that they were not valid on Hawaii flights. That caused a rebellion among United customers in Hawaii. There were cards and letters sent to the corporate office and letters to the editor in the newspapers. As a result of the customer backlash, and made these perks available to Hawaii residents.
If Hawaii was excluded from these offers, it essentially meant that these perks were worthless. And, as island residents, we use airlines more than the average American. We have to in order to go anywhere.
That was a few years ago. Apparently, corporate memory is short. This week United announced that they were launching a new "subscription" service whereby customers could buy a one year "subscription" to unlimited use of premium seats in economy for $499. But, guess what. It's an extra $100 if you live in Hawaii.
We'll have to see if Hawaii customers will remind United once again that they are part of the US. Even if we aren't United's "little corner of the world" it would be nice to be attached to the rest of the country.
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