In a significant development for travelers and cryptocurrency enthusiasts alike, Webus International Limited has announced a strategic partnership with Air China Limited, one of the leading state-owned airlines in China. This collaboration aims to enhance the travel experience for members of Air China’s PhoenixMiles loyalty program, which boasts over 60 million subscribers globally.
Through its Wetour travel service brand, Webus plans to provide PhoenixMiles members with premium chauffeur services and airport transfers. In a bid to modernize and streamline the payment process, the company will also integrate XRP payments into Wetour’s overseas platform. This integration promises not only faster transaction settlement but also introduces tokenized rewards and blockchain-enabled vouchers specifically tailored for travelers within Air China’s extensive network.
The move follows Webus’s recent success in securing up to $100 million in funding through a senior equity line of credit, which is aimed at bolstering its XRP treasury strategy. This funding will play a crucial role in underpinning the company’s objectives to enhance global payment solutions through a cryptocurrency lens.
Nan Zheng, CEO of Webus, highlighted the immense potential of this collaboration, stating that it not only spreads Wetour’s global service reach but also aligns with their vision of creating a Ripple-integrated travel ecosystem. The partnership positions Webus to tap into the extensive customer base of Air China’s PhoenixMiles, which allows members to earn and redeem miles across Air China and its partners, including airlines under the Star Alliance banner.
In addition to its partnership with Air China, Webus has taken proactive steps towards expanding its financial strategies. Earlier this year, the company submitted a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) that could lead to an investment of up to $300 million focused on its XRP treasury. Funding for this ambitious plan will come from a mixture of cash, bank loans, and credit facilities, emphasizing a sustained commitment to evolving its crypto-enabled payment solutions and loyalty programs.
As the travel industry increasingly embraces digital innovations and cryptocurrency, Webus’s initiatives could set a new benchmark for integrating blockchain technology into loyalty programs, enhancing the overall customer experience for millions of travelers.
