United offers app to combat jet lag

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United Airlines is offering customers a new, scientific way to battle jet lag through a partnership with Timeshifter, an app that gives recommendations of the best time to see and avoid light, sleep and ingest caffeine to adjust quickly to a new time zone. Members of the airline’s MileagePlus programme receive access to a free Timeshifter jet lag plan, while Premier 1K members receive a complimentary subscription with unlimited plans.

“Timeshifter takes all the guesswork out of avoiding jet lag and instead uses science and algorithms to design a customised, step-by-step trip across time zones,” said United’s VP of loyalty and president of MileagePlus, Luc Bondar. “I was a believer the first time I used the app and I think our customers will love it too.”

Timeshifter was developed by researchers in sleep and circadian neuroscience and is aimed at customers crossing three or more time zones. The app uses an algorithm to customise plans for customers based on a number of factors, including normal sleep pattern, flight details and individual preferences, creating a personalised jet lag alleviation plan. Each plan includes:

  • Instructions for when travellers should prioritise exposure to bright light or avoid it
  • A sleep and napping schedule based on sleep preferences
  • A plan to optimise caffeine intake for alertness and sleep
  • Optional timing for taking melatonin, should travellers choose to do so

MileagePlus members will receive a free jet lag plan for a flight plan of their choosing, in addition to the complimentary trial that Timeshifter offers customers for a total of two free flight plans. MileagePlus Premier 1K members will be able to sign up for complimentary annual subscriptions for unlimited access to jet lag plans when they travel. Individual plans for the app retail at US$9.99 for a round trip plan and yearly memberships are US$24.99.

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Ever since his first flight on a TriStar, Adam has loved air travel, and since becoming editor of the Aircraft Interiors International brand he has really enjoyed the opportunity to be involved with the latest aircraft and airline products before they are even launched. Adam co-ordinates the running of the magazine, from commissioning articles and artwork, to ensuring that high standards of quality are maintained, as well as managing online content. Adam is proud to sit on the jury of the Crystal Cabin Awards and to have laid on the bed in Etihad's Residence.

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