United Airlines â a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub â and BMW of North America are celebrating a successful summer, completing more than 14,000 luxury tarmac transfers since launching the automakerâs first tarmac transfer program with a U.S. airline in May. Available to select MileagePlus Premier members, the service offers chauffeured rides between connecting flights in 10 BMW vehicles across United hubs in Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C. Upon arrival, a dedicated Premier services agent meets members at the gate and escorts them to a state-of-the-art all-electric BMW i7 xDrive60 sedan or BMW iX M70 SUV waiting on the tarmac to drive them to their connecting flight.
âThis summer, our ground transfer program with BMW of North America showed how seamless, premium journeys create real value for our MileagePlus members â helping thousands connect with less stress and more comfort,â said Richard Nunn, CEO, MileagePlus. âBMW of North Americaâs commitment to innovation, luxury and sustainability further extends our programâs value, giving members elevated travel experiences that feel effortless and rewarding, while underscoring Unitedâs commitment to delivering thoughtful, forward-looking solutions.â
Unitedâs 10-vehicle tarmac fleet currently features seven BMW i7 xDrive60s, which provide silent, effortless, and luxurious all-electric power with 536hp and up to 311 miles of range. These vehicles also feature a Rear Executive Lounge with BMWâs class-exclusive 31-inch rear theatre screen, a Large Sky Lounge LED Panoramic Roof, and front and rear massaging seats. Additionally, the fleet includes three BMW iX M70s, the brandâs all-electric performance SUV offering 650hp and more than 300 miles of range. The vehicleâs notable features include a Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System, an Illuminated Kidney Grille, and a Panoramic Glass Eclipsing Roof with one-touch opacity for enhanced comfort and privacy.
âTeaming up with United offers an opportunity to show what true luxury feels like in the modern era,â said Shaun Bugbee, Executive Vice President of Operations, BMW of North America. âBy offering discerning clientele a chance to experience the Ultimate Electric Driving Machine from the backseat like a passenger in a first-class cabin, we can elevate the entire travel experience while also reinforcing BMWâs commitment to shaping the future of premium mobility.â
More than transportation, these vehicles transform quick connections into memorable travel moments for MileagePlus Premier members, delivering exceptional comfort and a distinctly premium experience.
Hear more from United Airlines in the free to attend Expo Stage Schedule at APEX FTE Asia Expo, taking place in Singapore on 11-12 November 2025. Jay Fulmer, Sr. Manager Solutions & Innovation, United Airlines, is participating in a session focused on âInnovative approaches to minimising the impact of disruption on passengers and the businessâ.
See our 12 reasons to attend APEX FTE Asia Expo 2025 >> Register for APEX FTE Asia Expo 2025 â free to attend >>
