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United Airlines and Mercedes Benz announced a partnership back in 2013. This offered high-value customers with tight connections tarmac transfers in luxury vehicles across the airline’s hubs. Then in 2022, Mercedes was out and Jaguar was in with its electric vehicles. This lasted three years, but now BMW is driving across airports around the country.
United Airlines and BMW of North America are marking a milestone in their recently formed partnership, completing over 14,000 luxury tarmac transfers since launching the first BMW tarmac transfer program with a US airline in May 2025. The exclusive service (available to select MileagePlus® Premier® members) elevates the connecting flight experience with chauffeured rides in BMW’s all-electric luxury vehicles across six major United hubs: Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), Denver International Airport (DEN), Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), San Francisco International Airport (SFO), and Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) (oddly, Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) is not on the list).
The service begins for select individuals with tight connections the moment passengers arrive at their connecting airport. A dedicated Premier Services agent greets travelers at the gate and escorts them directly to a waiting BMW i7 xDrive60 sedan or BMW iX M70 SUV parked on the tarmac. From there, guests are chauffeured across the airfield to their next gate, bypassing the terminal crowds and extending the premium experience United and BMW both pride themselves on delivering.
United’s current fleet of 10 BMW vehicles includes seven BMW i7 xDrive60s and three BMW iX M70s.
- BMW i7 xDrive60: The flagship electric sedan combines 536 horsepower and up to 311 miles of range with all-electric performance. Inside, passengers enjoy the Rear Executive Lounge, complete with a 31-inch theater screen, Sky Lounge LED Panoramic Roof, and massaging front and rear seats. The cabin’s whisper-quiet ride creates an atmosphere that feels more like a private suite than an airport transfer.
- BMW iX M70: As BMW’s all-electric performance SUV, the iX M70 delivers 650 horsepower and more than 300 miles of range. Key features include a Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System, Illuminated Kidney Grille, and a Panoramic Glass Eclipsing Roof that adjusts opacity for optimal comfort and privacy.
Since its debut, the program has transformed thousands of ordinary flight transfers into extraordinary experiences. The seamless integration of United’s personalized service and BMW’s electric luxury aligns with both brands’ commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer excellence. These transfers aren’t simply about convenience, they represent a new level of sophistication in air travel, where even a few minutes between flights can become an opportunity to unwind in comfort and style.
Shaun Bugbee, Executive Vice President of Operations for BMW of North America, said:
Teaming up with United offers an opportunity to show what true luxury feels like in the modern era. By 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 BMW’s commitment to shaping the future of premium mobility.”
Richard Nunn, CEO of MileagePlus®, added:
This summer, our ground transfer program with BMW of North America showed how seamless, premium journeys create real value for our MileagePlus members – helping thousands connect with less stress and more comfort. BMW of North America’s commitment to innovation, luxury and sustainability further extends our program’s value, giving members elevated travel experiences that feel effortless and rewarding, while underscoring United’s commitment to delivering thoughtful, forward-looking solutions.”
Anthony’s Take: I have been driven many times by Lufthansa when flying First Class from Germany, but never in the United States. I love that each of the major US carriers offers this service with a luxury auto manufacturer (Delta with Porsche and American with Cadillac).
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