Core Insights - Air Canada is the largest airline in Canada, operating a hub-and-spoke network with a focus on loyalty and partnerships, particularly through its Aeroplan program [2][4][5] - The airline serves nearly 200 destinations across six continents, with a fleet of 322 aircraft and over 1,600 daily flights [3][9] - Air Canada has been recognized as a 4-star airline by Skytrax, reflecting its solid service offerings and customer satisfaction [8][64] Company Overview - Founded in 1937, Air Canada was initially known as Trans-Canada Air Lines and rebranded in the 1960s [2] - The airline operates subsidiary brands like Air Canada Rouge and regional services under Air Canada Express [2] - Main hubs include Montréal, Toronto, and Vancouver, with a significant international presence [9] Loyalty Program - Aeroplan is Air Canada's loyalty program, allowing members to earn points on flights with Air Canada and over 45 partner airlines [7][10] - The program is set to transition to a revenue-based earning system in 2026, linking points earned to the amount spent [10] - Aeroplan offers flexibility with no blackout dates for redeeming points on Air Canada flights, although dynamic pricing can complicate the redemption process [11] Service Offerings - Air Canada provides various cabin classes, including economy, premium economy, and business class, with multiple fare types that include different levels of service [8][54] - The airline has upgraded its long-haul cabins and offers complimentary beer and wine on many North American routes [4][24] - In-flight amenities include personal entertainment systems, complimentary snacks, and options for purchasing meals and drinks [55][30] Fees and Add-Ons - Baggage fees vary by fare class and route, with economy passengers typically allowed one carry-on and one personal item for free, while checked baggage incurs additional charges [17] - Change and cancellation fees depend on fare class, with basic economy tickets often having stricter policies [19] - Additional services such as extra legroom seats, Wi-Fi, and pet transportation come with their own fees [22][23][32] Customer Experience - Air Canada has received mixed reviews regarding customer service, with common complaints about delays, cancellations, and add-on fees [61] - The airline maintains a strong safety record and has invested in modern aircraft to improve operational reliability [62] - Recent awards include recognition for best airline cleanliness and best airline staff in Canada [66]

Core Insights - Thai Airways Royal Silk business class offers a significantly improved experience compared to previous flights, particularly with the new Airbus A350-900 configuration [131][132] - The booking process for Thai Airways business class is flexible, allowing for various loyalty programs and partnerships, notably with Star Alliance [3][4][5] - The overall dining experience in Royal Silk business class is solid, with a good variety of food options, although some aspects could be improved [112][130] Booking and Loyalty Programs - Thai Airways can be booked through multiple airline loyalty programs, including Air Canada Aeroplan, which is favored for its transfer partners [3][4][5] - The distance from Singapore to Istanbul via Bangkok is approximately 5,548 miles, with an award redemption cost of 80,000 Aeroplan points [6][8] - The one-way business class itinerary can be booked for around $1,780, providing a higher value when redeeming Aeroplan points [9] Airport and Lounge Experience - Singapore Changi Airport is recognized as one of the best airports globally, enhancing the overall travel experience [10][11] - The Singapore Airlines SilverKris Lounge offers a variety of food options, although some items may not be fresh [36][33] - The lounge experience includes amenities such as showers, but the facilities could be improved in terms of space and water pressure [34][36] In-Flight Experience - The Royal Silk business class cabin on the Airbus A350-900 features a 1-2-1 configuration, providing direct aisle access and enhanced privacy [61][89] - Meal service includes a variety of options, with a focus on fresh ingredients and traditional Thai cuisine [51][112] - Basic amenities are provided, including a Jim Thompson-branded amenity kit and noise-canceling headphones, but the lack of onboard Wi-Fi is a notable drawback [129][120][121] Service and Overall Impression - The cabin crew's service is described as courteous and professional, contributing positively to the overall experience [130] - The recent flight experience has led to a more favorable view of Thai Airways, with expectations for future improvements in their product offerings [132][133]

Core Points - Frontier Airlines has launched a free, unlimited companion travel benefit for FRONTIER Miles Elite Platinum and Diamond Status members, allowing them to choose any friend or family member to accompany them for free on any Frontier flight [1][3] - To celebrate this launch, Frontier is offering free Platinum Status to 100 randomly selected entrants until August 31, providing winners with unlimited companion travel and other exclusive perks [2] - The new companion travel benefit is part of Frontier's broader initiative, "The New Frontier," aimed at enhancing customer experience through clear pricing, bundle options, and the elimination of change and cancellation fees [4] Company Initiatives - The FRONTIER Miles Elite Status program is designed to reward loyalty, with Platinum and Diamond members now able to share benefits with companions on every flight [3] - The FRONTIER Airlines World Mastercard® allows cardholders to earn Elite Status Points for every dollar spent, accelerating the achievement of top-tier benefits like unlimited companion travel [5] - Frontier Airlines is recognized for its commitment to environmental sustainability, having the largest and youngest A320neo family fleet in the U.S. and being named North American Environmental Sustainability Airline of the Year in 2024 [7]