Entry into the new program, a milestone for Copa Airlines, strengthens the strategic alliance with United and reaffirms Copa's commitment to offering its customers world-class service, say company officials. 

Readers of Global Traveler magazine have voted United's MileagePlus program the best frequent-flyer program for eight consecutive years. In addition, in 2011, Frequent Traveler ranked it the best airline elite program for the second consecutive year.

MileagePlus offers the following benefits:

1. More options for earning and redeeming miles.
2. More mileage bonuses per type of fare purchased.
3. More than 1,250 destinations.
4. New Premier® program with 4 status levels.
5. Benefits of the Star Alliance network.

"We are pleased to be part of MileagePlus, a world-class frequent-flyer program," said Marco Antonio Ocando, Director of Marketing, Copa Airlines. "This step demonstrates our commitment to offer our passengers increased benefits and better connectivity from Panama to the 63 destinations in 29 countries where we operate around the world.  We continue to be a leader not only in on-time performance, but in world-class service."

OnePass members will maintain their existing Elite status and miles earned. Enrollment in MileagePlus is automatic. OnePass credit cards will continue to earn miles and benefits for the MileagePlus program.

2,000-mile MileagePlus promotion

To reward frequent flyers and promote the launch of the new program, Copa Airlines is offering customers the chance to earn a one-time bonus of 2,000 additional miles.  Passenger may enroll in the promotion through mileageplus.com, enter the promotion code TB3M75 with their MileagePlus number and fly between March 19 and May 20, 2012.

Customers may purchase tickets and register for the promotion beginning March 19.