Airlines Frequent Flyer Program

Airlines know the cost of getting a new customer. They also know that it is much easier and less expensive to keep the customers that they already have.  This the reasoning behind the frequent flyer programs that airlines have. Frequent flyer programs reward you the more you fly.

A frequent flyer program allows you to receive certain benefits based on the number of miles that you fly on a particular airline. This may include a free ticket or a free upgrade from economy class to first class.

Some airlines offer exclusive programs that provide check-in and boarding pass priorities. There are also affinity’credit cards that give you mileage credits whenever you use them for purchases. For you to gain these benefits you must first become a member of the airline’s program. This can be done through a travel agency or online.

Be sure to compare the different programs available carefully before enrolling as a member. As each airline’s program has conditions and limitations. Remember to read their promotional material in detail.

Here are several things you should look out for:

The rate at which you can earn credits and the minimum number of credits you can earn per flight.

Find out about free tickets for yourself, or a companion and upgrades.

How much credit you would need for the awards you are interested in.

When do credits expire?

Do the airline fly to the cities you are traveling to?

Is it affiliated with other airlines, car rental companies or hotels?

Can awards be transferred to someone else or are they only for members?

Keep in mind airlines reserve the right to make changes at any time, often without notice. These changes may include amendments to the conditions and limits on the awards earned.

Don’t forget to keep track of the mileage you have earned and compare it to the statement they mail to you.

It is not unusual for airlines to add new routes after you have joined the program. You may be able to earn credits on that route but not use awards there.

Another vital point you should bear in mind is airlines generally restrict the transfer of mileage earnings. This is most often seen with the sale or attempted sale of credits or awards a person has earned and decided to sell. You should never attempt to do this, as airlines normally find out about these schemes and actively pursue them.