Northwest Airlines' AirCares Program Recognized as Industry Leader

Strategic Insights -

Northwest Airlines' AirCares community support program has been recognized at the United Nations as the most innovative and pioneering best practice initiative in the airline industry. Established in 1992, AirCares supports nonprofit organizations that align with the airline's values and community concerns. The program has contributed over $5.5 million to its charity partners since its inception. AirCares has also been expanded to include a mileage donation system and a KidsCare element that enables WorldPerks members to donate miles for children in need.

Key Takeaways:

  • Northwest Airlines' AirCares program was established in 1992 to support nonprofit organizations that reflect the airline's corporate values and community concerns.
  • The program has contributed over $5.5 million to its charity partners since its inception.
  • AirCares was recognized at the United Nations as the most innovative and pioneering best practice initiative in the airline industry in 1999.
  • The program includes a mileage donation system, which allows Northwest WorldPerks members to donate their bonus miles to charity partners.
  • A KidsCare element of AirCares was launched to enable WorldPerks members to donate miles for children in need of medical treatment.
  • AirCares has facilitated relief efforts following natural disasters in China, Japan, and the southern United States.
  • The program is affiliated with the United Nations and has been sponsored by Airline Ambassadors International.

Statistics:

  • 1992: AirCares program was established to support nonprofit organizations that align with the airline's values and community concerns.
  • 1992-1999: AirCares contributed over $5.5 million to its charity partners.
  • 1998: AirCares was expanded to include a mileage donation system.
  • 1999: AirCares was recognized at the United Nations as the most innovative and pioneering best practice initiative in the airline industry.
  • 12 million: Number of passengers reached through on-board communications each quarter.
  • 1000: Number of airline employees and volunteers affiliated with Airline Ambassadors International.
  • 500: Number of cities served by Northwest Airlines and its global travel partners.
  • 6: Number of continents served by Northwest Airlines and its global travel partners.

Sources:

  • M2 PRESSWIRE - "Northwest Airlines: Northwest Airlines AirCares recognized at United Nations" (April 29, 1999)
  • United Nations - Commission on Sustainable Development
  • Airline Ambassadors International - Non-profit organization affiliated with the United Nations
  • Northwest Airlines - Community Support Program
  • Agenda 21 - Comprehensive program of action adopted by 182 governments at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (June 14, 1992)