A few days ago, Priyanka Chopra gave fans a glimpse of her travel diaries when she shared a photo of Hyderabad’s famous bun maska on her Instagram Stories. The actor was carrying the popular snack while
flying back to Los Angeles. While many noticed the food item, there was something else in the frame: her Emirates boarding pass.
A small detail from her boarding pass has now sparked curiosity online. A podcast host recently decoded what the boarding pass could mean and explained the hidden layers of Emirates’ loyalty program and the rare status levels that exist beyond what most passengers know.
A Loyalty Tier Of Emirates Airlines You Won’t Find Online
Speaking about the airline’s structure, the host said, “Emirates has a loyalty status so exclusive, it doesn’t exist on their website. Pilots hold the plane if you are late. Only 300 people in the world have it, and Priyanka Chopra just accidentally revealed she might be one of them.”
He pointed out that while most people know about Emirates Skywards, the airline’s award-winning loyalty program, there is more to it than the publicly listed tiers.
Beyond Platinum: VIP And Then iO
According to the host, Emirates has four main tiers: Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum. But above Platinum, things change.
He explained, “VIP is what Priyanka has, a special status for people Emirates considers important. Celebrities, diplomats, big names.”
But he clarified that above VIP lies something even rarer: iO, which stands for Invitation-Only.
“About 300 people on the planet have it. You can’t earn it with miles. You cannot apply. The President of Emirates personally picks you,” he claimed.
The Perks That Sound Unreal
Describing the benefits of the iO tier, the host said, “The perks are genuinely wild.”
He claimed members get a 24/7 personal relationship manager, a Mercedes pickup from home and airport assistance where an Emirates staff member meets them with their boarding pass already ready.
“You never touch a check-in counter. You never stand in a queue ever,” he said.
He further added that in Dubai, if the aircraft is parked away from the terminal, iO members are driven across the tarmac in a private Mercedes instead of taking a shuttle bus. Seats in Business or First Class are guaranteed even on full flights. He also claimed that departures have been briefly held for iO members.
“This has existed since 2010… and Emirates has kept this discreet,” he concluded.
More About Emirates IO
A report by Simple Flying described iO as similar to a private members’ club for ultra-frequent or high-value flyers. It recognises their contribution to the airline and operates with strict privacy.
While the host mentioned that the tier cannot be earned or applied for, which is largely true, the report suggested that those with strong commercial ties to the airline or those who have reportedly spent over $1 million over the years may be considered. Frequent premium flyers, especially those taking over 50 long-haul Business or First Class flights annually on full-fare tickets, may also be offered membership at the airline’s discretion.
Exclusive Dining And Special Privileges
The iO membership comes with highly personalised services. Members can pre-select their favourite meals or even request dishes from specific restaurants. They may also receive complimentary tickets to sporting events sponsored by the airline, Simple Flying reported.
A welcome kit includes a personalised note, a loyalty card, premium access benefits, luggage tags and even a gold loyalty card for a companion. The membership is valid for two years and is renewed only at the airline’s discretion.
