bmi to cut Business Class

bmi A320

bmi are to implement a change in travel classes, to ensure passengers pay a lower rate of tax. Business Class is to be scrapped on Irish and UK services. The premium cabin was originally to be scrapped in 2005 when most other bmi services lost their forward cabin, however the financial community successfully campaigned for it to be retained.

However there is a new class of service, called Flexible Economy, where you will be seated at the front of the plane, receive free inflight food and drink (with a free bar), as well as continue to get lounge access and 200% Diamond Club miles. The only real change is the lack of a curtain. In effect, this is business class, but passengers will not pay the extra Air Passenger Duty (or APD). bmi claim the fare will also be attractive to passengers who can no longer claim business class flights from their company.

There are also changes to Diamond Club. Complimentary refreshments for Diamond Club Gold, Silver and Blue Plus members will no longer be on offer from the end of January. Drinks and snacks will be available for purchase on board. The Blue Plus tier will be axed.

>>> Review: Passenger opinions on bmi's cabin, seats and routes.

>>> More details & source: bmi Media Release - flybmi.com/about-us/information-centre/press-releases

bmi have also unexpectedly released details of a new service to Vienna from the end of March. The route will be operated in conjunction with Austrian Airlines, also part of Star Alliance, and will increase the combined bmi/Austrian Airlines frequencies between the two cities to five daily services, more than BA or any other competitor offers on the route. The new five a day schedule will also offer customers a range of onward connecting flights over Austrian Airlines’ Vienna hub to the Far East.