Frequent Flier 101: What You Need to Know About Loyalty Programs

Frequent Flier Membership Cards (image credit: jaunted)

In a recent USA Today report all the basics are covered on what you need to know about airline frequent flier programs.

Here are a couple of things you may not know:

Is it worth the time and effort required to pursue frequent flier perks:
It's a mistake to think of frequent flier miles as an extra. The cost of frequent flier miles is included in every ticket issued. So if you don't earn miles and eventually redeem them for an award, you are effectively overpaying for your ticket.

Mileage expiration:
The rule governing mileage expiration in most programs reads something like this: All miles will expire 18 months (two years in some programs) after the latest earning or redemption transaction. In other words, any account activity automatically extends the life of all miles in that account for an additional 1.5 years. For example, anytime you earn points like charging on an airline credit card you extend the life of your points without flying.


Click here to view the complete article. I definitely recommend the report for anyone who believe one loyalty program is not worth it or that they'll never earn enough points for a reward. The basics covered include earning points through partner airlines, hotel stays, car rentals, credit card charges and shopping. Airline awards examples and key program "Terms and Conditions" are also reviewed.