The best airline loyalty programs worldwide

21 Feb 2024 · 12
When you’re busy traveling, you might not have the time to scour the internet for the best frequent flyer program. The truth is, there isn’t one best program for everyone. There are several great programs, and we’ve put together all of the finer details so you can easily review them and sign up for the one that works for you.
Want the quick answer to which one you should pick? Skim the "partner airlines" section for each program and see if the airlines you often fly with are included. If there’s some overlap with your top-trusted airlines, you can just take a look at the benefits of each and make your choice.
And remember, using TravelPerk’s business travel management software, you can easily
save loyalty program membership numbers for business travelers
. This way, no matter who’s booking—your internal travel manager, administrative assistant, or the traveler themselves—the business travelers will automatically collect their miles.
Here’s our airline rewards program comparison with all the top worldwide programs for US-based business travelers.

Airline Loyalty Programs Comparison

JetBlue TrueBlue

With no blackout dates, eight partner airlines, and sweet bonuses in the upper tier, this rewards program from JetBlue is a fan favorite. Besides flights, hotel stays, and car rentals, you can also earn points on purchases with retail partners like Apple and Gap through the TrueBlue Shopping Portal. 
Partner Airlines:
  • JetBlue
  • Qatar Airways
  • Hawaiian Airlines
  • Icelandair
  • JSX
  • Silver Airways
  • Singapore Airlines
  • South African Airways
Top Partner Companies:
  • JetBlue credit cards by Barclays
  • Chase Ultimate Rewards
  • Jet Opinions (points for taking surveys!)
  • Avis
  • Budget
  • Amazon (earn 3x JetBlue points when you do your Amazon shopping on JetBlue’s free Fly-Fi Wi-Fi)
  • Citi
  • IHG One Rewards (there are over 6000 participating hotels across 17 brands in over 100 countries/regions)
Tiers & Benefits
You’ll be collecting three points for every dollar spent with JetBlue and their partners (except on Blue Basic fares, where you’ll earn one point). If you travel often, the four-level Mosaic program will give you priority boarding, free same-day flight changes, checked bags, priority security, extra legroom, and free booze!
Tier Names
TrueBlue
TrueBlue Mosaic (1-4)
Qualifications
Free
50 tiles ($5,000 in spending on JetBlue flights, or $50,000 in spending on your JetBlue credit card)
No blackout dates for spending points on JetBlue
Use points for any seat, any time
Points never expire
Pool points with family or friends
Same-day switches with no fee or fare difference
First two checked bags free
Expedited security lane
Dedicated check-in
Extra legroom
Dedicated customer service line
Complimentary alcoholic beverages
Select extra “Perks you Pick” each time you level up
Earn points on every flight
At least three points per dollar spent with JetBlue, excluding Blue Basic fares, plus bonus points when booking on jetblue.com (when on the Premium plan, your TravelPerk representative can do this for you to keep all travel spend trackable in one place)
An additional 3x the points on all JetBlue flights, regardless of the fare booked.

Southwest Rapid Rewards

The Rapid Rewards program from Southwest Airlines won’t allow you to collect points from airlines other than Southwest. However, the airline does have partnerships with over 800 retailers in the US (including heavyweights like Macy’s, Home Depot, and Sephora), as well as several popular hotel chains and rental car companies.
Partner Airlines:
  • Southwest Airlines
Top Partner Companies:
  • Southwest Hotels
  • Best Western
  • Choice Hotels
  • World of Hyatt
  • MGM Rewards
  • Marriott Bonvoy
  • Rocketmiles
  • Avis
  • Hertz
  • Budget
  • Macy’s
  • Home Depot
  • Sephora
Tiers & Benefits
When you ascend the tiers, you get even more points for dollars spent, bringing you that much closer to the famed Companion Pass.
Tier Names
Base
A-List
A-List Preferred
Qualifications
Free
Fly 20 qualifying one-way flights or earn 35,000 tier qualifying points in a calendar year
Fly 40 qualifying one-way flights or earn 70,000 tier qualifying points in a calendar year
No blackout dates for spending points
Same-day change/standby
Included in all fares except “Wanna Get Away” fares
Earn points on every flight
12 points per dollar on Business Select flights. 10 points per dollar on Anytime flights. 8 points per dollar on Wanna Get Away Plus flights. 6 points per
15 points per dollar on Business Select flights. 12.5 points per dollar on Anytime flights. 10 points per dollar on Wanna Get Away Plus flights. 7.5 points per dollar on Wanna Get Away flights.
24 points per dollar on Business Select flights. 20 points per dollar on Anytime flights. 16 points per dollar on Wanna Get Away Plus flights. 12 points
Priority boarding
Priority lane and express lane
Dedicated customer service
25% earning bonus on qualifying flights
100% earning bonus on qualifying flights
Free in-flight Wi-Fi
Companion Pass
We can’t talk about Rapid Rewards without mentioning the Companion Pass. If you qualify (fly 100 one-way flights or earn 125,000 points in a calendar year) then you get a Companion Pass for the remainder of that calendar year plus the entirety of the next calendar year. The Companion Pass allows you to bring another passenger with you on any flight and only pay the applicable taxes and fees (not the airline charges for the ticket). Pretty sweet deal for the business traveler who’s also a weekend warrior. You can earn qualifying points from flights, shopping, dining, and spending on your Rapid Rewards credit card. If you fly Southwest with a “companion” a lot, it’s certainly worth looking into!
Learn more about signing up for Rapid Rewards
Ebook

Get the ultimate travel management guide. It's a game-changer.

Mileage Plan

Alaska Airlines’ rewards program, the Mileage Plan, has partnerships with global airlines, including many in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. If your travel takes you out of the States often, then choosing a program with a lot of global partnerships is a smart move.
Partner Airlines:
  • Alaska Airlines
  • Aer Lingus
  • American Airlines
  • Air Tahiti Nui
  • British Airways
  • Cathay Pacific
  • Condor
  • EL AL Israel Airlines
  • Fiji Airways
  • Finnair
  • Hainan Airlines
  • Iberia
  • Icelandair
  • Japan Airlines
  • Korean Air
  • Latam Airlines
  • Malaysia Airlines
  • Qantas
  • Qatar Airways
  • Ravn Alaska
  • Royal Air Maroc
  • Royal Jordanian
  • Singapore Airlines
  • Sri Lankan Airlines
  • STARLUX Airlines
Tiers & Benefits
With First Class and Premium upgrades on lots of fares, you’ll be sitting pretty if you earn MVP status.
Tier Name
Mileage Plan
MVP
MVP Gold
MVP Gold 75K
MVP Gold 100k
Qualifications
Free
In a single calendar year: 20,000 miles flown on Alaska Airlines and partners, including at least 2 flights marketed and operated by Alaska Airlines
In a single calendar year: 40,000 miles flown on Alaska Airlines and partners, including at least 6 flights marketed and operated by Alaska Airlines
In a single calendar year: 75,000 miles flown on Alaska Airlines and partners, including at least 12 flights marketed and operated by Alaska Airlines
In a single calendar year: 100,000 miles flown on Alaska Airlines and partners, including at least 24 flights marketed and operated by Alaska Airlines
Blackout dates
No blackout dates on Alaska Airlines, blackout dates may apply on partner airlines
No blackout dates on Alaska Airlines, blackout dates may apply on partner airlines
No blackout dates on Alaska Airlines, blackout dates may apply on partner airlines
No blackout dates on Alaska Airlines, blackout dates may apply on partner airlines
No blackout dates on Alaska Airlines, blackout dates may apply on partner airlines
Earning points (as of 2025)
25% more bonus miles earned
50% more bonus miles earned
100% more bonus miles earned
150% more bonus miles earned
First class upgrades at time of booking(Alaska Airlines only)
Y or B fares
Y, B, H or K fares
Y, B, H, K or M fares
Y, B, H, K or M fares
Premium class upgrades at time of booking (Alaska Airlines only)
Y, B or H fares
Y, B, H, K, M, L, V, S or N fares
All fares except Saver fares
All fares except Saver fares
First or Premium Class upgrades on other fares
48 hours before departure
72 hours before departure
120 hours before departure
120 hours Highest waitlist priority
First and Premium Class upgrade eligibility on Saver fares
Within 2 hours of departure
Within 2 hours of departure
Within 2 hours of departure
Within 2 hours of departure
Companion upgrades to First Class (Alaska Airlines only)
Companion Upgrades to Premium Class (Alaska Airlines only)
First Class guest upgrades (max. 4 per year)
International upgrade certificates on American Airlines
1 one-way
2 one-way
Complimentary premium beverage or chocolate in Main Cabin
Complimentary snack or meal in Main Cabin
Priority check-in and boarding
Free checked bags
2
2
3
3
Preferred seating
Express security line
Standby and waitlist for full flights
Alaska Lounge membership discount
Four Alaska Lounge day passes (max. 4 per year)
$10 off a CLEAR Plus membership
Priority call routing in call centers
Elite Leave for new parents
Complimentary same-day flight changes

SkyMiles

This is the best fit for the traveler who flies in Europe and Asia just as often as the States! If your national carrier is likely to be Delta but you want global partners, then consider SkyMiles for your top-choice rewards program.
Partner Airlines:
  • Delta Air Lines
  • AeroMexico
  • AirFrance
  • China Eastern
  • KLM
  • Korean Air
  • LATAM Airlines
  • Virgin Atlantic
  • AirBaltic
  • EL AL
  • AirEuropa
  • Cape Air
  • China Airlines
  • China Southern Airlines
  • Czech Airlines
  • Garuda Indonesia
  • Hawaiian Airlines
  • ITA Airways
  • Kenya Airways
  • Middle East Airlines
  • Saudia
  • Tarom
  • Vietnam Airlines
  • WestJet
  • XiamenAir
  • Aerolineas Argentinas
Top Partner Companies:
  • Delta SkyMiles Credit Card
  • American Express Membership Rewards
  • Starbucks
  • Lyft
  • Delta Vacations
  • Ticketmaster
  • Delta
  • Airbnb
  • Marriott Bonvoy
  • IHG
  • Le Club Accor Hotels
  • Hyatt
  • Langham Hospitality Group
  • Shangri-La
  • Hertz
  • Dollar Car Rental
  • Thrifty Car Rental
  • Alamo
  • Enterprise
  • National
  • AVIS
  • Budget 
  • Payless Car Rental
  • TURO
  • Europcar
  • SIXT
  • Energy Plus
  • SkyMiles Shopping
  • SkyMiles Dining
Tiers & Benefits
As of January 1, 2024, Medallion Qualifying Dollars (MQDs) will be the only determinant of benefits. Every dollar spent on Delta, its partner airlines (except basic economy fares), and Delta retail partners earns you one MQD. If value matters more to you than racking up miles, this is the program for you.
Another interesting element of this program is that in the two higher tiers, you choose 1-3 benefits.
Are you curious about the program but already have elite status with another airline? Delta’s new Medallion Status Match Challenge lets you swap your elite status for a free three-month trial of SkyMiles Medallion perks.
Tier Names
SkyMiles
Silver Medallion Status
Gold Medallion Status
Platinum Medallion Status
Diamond Medallion Status
Qualifications
Free
$5,000 MQDs
$10,000 MQDs
$15,000 MQDs
$28,000 MQDs
No blackout dates for Delta Airlines
Blackout dates for partner airlines
Some blackout dates apply
Some blackout dates apply
Some blackout dates apply
Some blackout dates apply
Some blackout dates apply
Earning points
5 miles spent for each $1 on Delta flights
7 miles spent for each $1 on Delta flights
8 miles spent for each $1 on Delta flights
9 miles spent for each $1 on Delta flights
11 miles spent for each $1 on Delta flights
Choice Benefits Options
Choose 1 “Choice Benefit”
Choose 3 “Choice Benefit”
Unlimited Complimentary US Delta One Upgrades (except E fares)
Day of Departure
Day of Departure
Day of Departure
Day of Departure
Unlimited Complimentary First Class Upgrades (except E fares)
Begins 1 day (24 hours) prior to departure
Begins 3 days (72 hours) prior to departure
Begins 5 days (120 hours) prior to departure
Begins 5 days (120 hours) prior to departure (with priority over Platinum members)
Unlimited Complimentary Delta Comfort+ Upgrades (except E fares)
Begins 1 day (24 hours) prior to departure
Begins 3 days (72 hours) prior to departure
Shortly after ticketing
Shortly after ticketing
Unlimited Complimentary US 50 Delta One, First Class, and Delta Comfort+ Upgrades for a Companion (except E fares)
Unlimited Complimentary Clase Premier Upgrades on select Aeromexico-operated flights
Begins 1 day (24 hours) prior to departure
Begins 3 days (72 hours) prior to departure
Begins 5 days (120 hours) prior to departure
Begins 5 days (120 hours) prior to departure (with priority over Platinum members)
Complimentary Preferred Seats
Priority Waitlist Status
Waived Baggage Fees
Waived Same-Day Confirmed Fees
Dedicated Phone Line
Priority
High Priority
Higher Priority
VIP Line
Priority Check In
Priority Boarding
Sky Priority
Sky Priority
Highest among Medallion Members
Priority Security Line
Expedited Baggage Service
Priority Baggage Handling (for International Flights with SkyTeam airline partners)
CLEAR® Plus Membership
$179/year
$149/year
$149/year
Complimentary
Complimentary
Reclaim My Status
SkyTeam Status (for International Flights)
Elite
Elite Plus
Elite Plus
Elite Plus
SkyTeam Lounge Access
Miles earned per $1 spent on qualifying car rentals with Hertz
5
6
7
8
Status in the Hertz Gold Plus Rewards® Program
Five Star®
Five Star®
President’s Circle®
President’s Circle®
Savings of up to $350 per booking with Delta Vacations
Drink Vouchers
Four (4) drink vouchers
Four (4) drink vouchers
Four (4) drink vouchers
Bag Tags
Traveler Street Coffee

Save money when booking flights for business travel today!

Your details will be used for demo purposes only. View
Privacy Policy
.

AAdvantage

With a long list of partner airlines, the AAdvantage program from American Airlines is a great option for the global traveler. Note that there are fewerEuropean airlines here than the SkyMiles program. With the highest number of participating retailers (over 1,000), this card lets shoppers rack up miles.
Partner Airlines:
  • American Airlines
  • Alaska Airlines
  • British Airways
  • Cathay Pacific
  • Finnair
  • Iberia
  • Japan Airlines
  • Malaysia Airlines
  • Qantas
  • Qatar Airways
  • Royal Air Maroc
  • Royal Jordanian Airlines
  • SriLankan Airlines
  • Aer Lingus
  • Cape Air
  • China Southern Airlines
  • Etihad Airways
  • Fiji Airways
  • GOL Airlines
  • Hawaiian Airlines
  • IndiGo
  • JetBlue
  • JetSMART
  • Silver Airways
  • Air Tahiti Nui
Top Partner Companies:
  • Citi AAdvantage Platinum Select Card
  • American Airlines Vacations
  • Ticketmaster
  • eShopping
  • Marriott Bonvoy
  • Avis
  • Hertz
  • Budget
  • Alamo
  • Bask Bank
  • Dollar Car Rental
  • Hyatt Hotels
  • IHG Rewards
  • Miles for Opinions
  • National Car Rental
  • NRG
  • Payless Car Rental
  • Reliant
  • Shell Fuel Rewards®
  • SimplyMiles
  • Stand Up To Cancer
  • Thrifty Car Rental
Tiers & Benefits
To move up the tiers, you only need Loyalty Points, which can be earned when you fly, use an AAdvantage credit card, or shop at an AAdvantage partner. AAdvantage status members can also take advantage of oneworld® benefits as passengers on scheduled flights that are marketed and operated by oneworld® member airlines.
Tier Names
AAdvantage
Gold
Platinum
Platinum Pro
Executive Platinum
Qualifications
Free
40,000
75,000
125,000
200,000
No blackout dates for American Airlines
Blackout dates for partner airlines
Some blackout dates apply
Some blackout dates apply
Some blackout dates apply
Some blackout dates apply
Some blackout dates apply
Earning points
5 miles for every dollar
7 miles for every dollar, plus mileage bonus
8 miles for every dollar, plus mileage bonus
9 miles for every dollar, plus mileage bonus
11 miles for every dollar, plus mileage bonus
Unlimited, auto-requested complimentary upgrades (including award tickets)
Complimentary upgrade for one (1) companion traveling with you on the same flight
Upgrades confirmed before departure (as early as)
24 hours
48 hours
72 hours
100 hours
Complimentary upgrades on Alaska Airlines flights
Status mileage bonus
40%
60%
80%
120%
Priority through the airport at check-in, security, and boarding
Free checked bags for each flight
1
2
3
3
Priority bag delivery
Basic Economy cancellation for a partial Trip Credit for a fee
Extended Trip Credit
Same-day standby
Complimentary same-day flight change
Discounted Admirals Club® membership
Exclusive Admirals Club® One-Day Passes for a fee
Exclusive Flagship® Lounge Single Visit Passes for a fee
24-hour trip hold
Exclusive service desk
Complimentary preferred seats
Complimentary Main Cabin Extra seats
Within 24 hours of departure
Guaranteed availability in the Main Cabin
Waitlist priority for purchased First or Business class
Complimentary alcoholic beverage and snack in the Main Cabin
oneworld® priority check-in and standby
oneworld® priority boarding
oneworld® priority security
oneworld® partner lounge access
Business Class and frequent flyer lounges
First and Business Class and frequent flyer lounges
First and Business Class and frequent flyer lounges
oneworld® preferred or pre-reserved seating
oneworld® complimentary bags
Total of 1 bags on American
Total of 2 bags on American
Total of 3 bags on American
Total of 3 bags on American

United MileagePlus

As part of the Star Alliance, United Airlines offers MileagePlus members the ability to collect miles from over 35 other airlines. With domestic hubs in eight US cities and territories and daily flights to cities across five continents, MileagePlus is a great option for the States-based traveler who also flies internationally. There are also 900+ partnering retailers that can help you earn 1 mile per dollar spent.
Partner Airlines:
  • United Airlines
  • Aegean
  • Aer Lingus
  • Aeromar
  • Air Canada
  • Air China
  • Air Dolomiti
  • Air India
  • Airlink
  • Azul
  • Boutique Air
  • Cape Air
  • Discover Airlines
  • Edelweiss
  • Emirates
  • Eurowings 
  • FlyDubai
  • Hawaiian Airlines
  • JSX
  • Olympic Air
  • Silver Airways
  • Virgin Australia
  • Vistara
  • Air New Zealand
  • ANA
  • Asiana Airlines
  • Austrian
  • Avianca
  • Brussels Airlines
  • Copa Airlines
  • Croatia Airlines
  • Egyptair
  • Ethiopian Airlines
  • Eva Air
  • Juneyao Air (connecting partner)
  • LOT Polish Airlines
  • Lufthansa
  • SAS
  • Shenzhen Airlines
  • Singapore Airlines
  • South African Airways
  • Swiss Airlines
  • TAP Air Portugal
  • Thai Airways
  • Turkish Airlines
Top Partner Companies:
  • United Hotels
  • Several Chase Credit Cards
  • FTD®
  • Apple Rewards Store
  • Vrbo
  • Vinesse
  • Marriott Bonvoy
  • Marriott Vacation Club
  • Teleflora
  • NRG
  • Avis
  • Budget Car Rental
  • Norton
  • Emergency Assistance Plus
  • 1-800-Flowers
  • MyPoints
  • Therabody
  • Timeshifter
  • Rocketmiles
  • Bilt
  • SimpliSafe
  • CLEAR
  • Rocket Mortgage
  • FareLock®
  • Opinion Miles Club
Tiers & Benefits
Tiers are based on either a combination of Premier Qualifying Flights (PQFs) and Premier Qualifying Points (PQPs) or by meeting a higher PQP goal.
Tier Names
Mileage Plus
Premier Silver
Premier Gold
Premier Platinum
Premier 1k
Qualifications
As soon as you join
12 PQF and 4,000 PQP OR 5,000 PQP
24 PQF and 8,000 PQP OR 10,000 PQP (Lifetime status when you reach 1 million miles)
36 PQF and 12,000 PQP OR 15,000 PQP (Lifetime status when you reach 2 million miles)
54 PQF and 18,000 PQP OR 24,000 PQP (Lifetime status when you reach 3 million miles)
No blackout dates for award flights on United and United Express
Earning points
7 miles for every dollar spent
8 miles for every dollar spent
9 miles for every dollar spent
11 miles for every dollar spent
Complimentary access to Economy Plus or preferred seating
Preferred seating at booking; Economy Plus at check-in
At booking
At booking
At booking
Complimentary Economy Plus for travel companions
1
1
8
8
Preferred seating for travel companions
8
8
8
8
Complimentary Premier Upgrades (as early as)
Day of departure
48 hours
72 hours
96 hours
Instant upgrades to the premium cabin on Economy tickets
Y or B class fares
Y or B class fares
Y or B class fares
Y, B, or M class fares
PlusPoints
40
+280
1 free drink and 1 snack in Economy
Confirmed flight changes within 24 hours
Free within same fare class
Free within same fare class
Free within same fare class
Free within same fare class
Access to most sold-out flights
Y-class ticket, at least 24 hours before departure
Y-class ticket, at least 24 hours before departure
Y-class ticket, at least 2 hours before departure
Y- or B-class ticket, at least 1.5 hours before departure
United Club annual membership discount
$50 discount
$100 discount
CLEAR discounted annual membership
$149
$149
$149
Waived
Better award availability in Economy
Better award availability in select premium cabins
Priority award waitlisting
Standby for international award flights
Premier Priority Desk phone line
Fee waived for making changes or canceling an award ticket with redeposit
Priority check-in
Priority security screening
Priority boarding
Group 2
Group 1
Group 1
Pre-board
International lounge access
Complimentary checked bags in Economy
1
2
3
3
3 complimentary checked bags in premium cabin

HawaiianMiles

This program is great for Pacific Coast or Hawaii-located travelers who fly often from the islands to the mainland, or from either place to Asia. With their signature motto “a mile flown is a mile earned,” we’ll leave it to you to guess how you earn miles.
Partner Airlines:
  • Hawaiian Airlines
  • Air China
  • China Airlines
  • American Airlines
  • Delta Airlines
  • Japan Airlines
  • JetBlue
  • Korean Air
  • Philippine Airlines
  • Turkish Airlines
  • United Airlines
  • Virgin Australia
Top Partner Companies:
  • Mastercard
  • Starwood Preferred Guest
  • Hyatt
  • Hilton
  • Marriott
  • IHG
  • Avis
  • Budget
  • Payless Car Rental
  • Old Navy
  • Papa John’s
  • 76
  • Vera Bradley
  • Hele
  • Petco
  • Sharper Image
Tiers & Benefits
The higher tiers are some of the easier ones to access versus other plans. Fly round-trip between SFO and HNL four times in one year and you’ll almost reach Pualani Gold. A few partner hotel stays should get you to the 20,000 mile requirement.
Tier Names
HawaiianMiles
Premier Club
Pualani Gold
Pualani Platinum
Qualifications
As soon as you join
$299/year or redeem 40,000 miles; annual renewal at $249/year or 35,000 miles
Fly 30 segments or 20,000 miles in a calendar year
Fly 60 segments or 40,000 miles in a calendar year
No blackout dates
Earning miles
Based on destination
Based on destination
Based on destination
Based on destination
Earn 500 HawaiianMiles on any neighbor island flight
Bonus frequent flyer miles when flying on a revenue ticket
50%
100%
More seats available for selection
Premier Club Access (Honolulu, Hilo, Kona, Kahului, Lihue) for the member and two guests
Access to The Plumeria Lounge at Honolulu airport for the member and one guest when flying internationally.
Access to select international partner lounges for the member and one guest.
Priority boarding
Zone 2
Zone 2
Zone 1
First Class check-in and express security line
At select airports
Priority baggage handling
Complimentary checked bags
2
2
3
Exclusive Reservations customer service line
Discounted Main Cabin flight awards when booking online
Complimentary upgrades to Extra Comfort seats on flights to neighbor islands
Complimentary upgrades to Extra Comfort seats on North America-bound and international flights
Upgrades to First or Business Class on flights to neighbor islands
50% discount
Complimentary, upon check-in
Guaranteed seat availability in Coach Class on on neighbor island flights when purchased via Hawaiian Airlines Reservations
Until 72 hours before departure
Two complimentary upgrade certificates for Business/First class on longer flights. Pualani Platinum members who earn 75,000 miles in one calendar year will receive six upgrade certificates, plus one certificate for every additional 10,000 miles after 75,000 miles.
Ticket change fee waived for neighbor island flights
Neighbor Island Standby for an earlier flight with no additional fee
Complimentary First Class Upgrade based on availability
50% discount
Complimentary access to preferred seat on all Hawaiian Airlines-operated flights
::yes:: *Not valid for Main Cabin Basic fares

British Airways Executive Club

There are many reasons why frequent business travelers would want to join the British Airways Executive Club. With its distinct reward currency, Avios, cardholders have countless ways to redeem miles for flights, hotels, airport lounges, and even travel experiences. The program’s Balance Booster even allows you to double or triple your Avios. You can use miles for a number of exciting perks that fall under the One World umbrella.
Partner Airlines:
  • American Airlines
  • Cathay Pacific
  • Qantas
  • Finnair
  • Iberia
  • Japan Airlines
  • Qatar Airways
  • China Southern Airlines
  • Alaska Airlines
  • Malaysia Airlines
  • Royal Air Maroc
  • Royal Jordanian
  • S7 Airlines
  • Sri Lankan Airlines
  • Aer Lingus
  • LATAM
Top Partner Companies:
  • British Airways American Express® Credit Card
  • Accor
  • Airbnb
  • Avios Hotels
  • IHG
  • Marriott International
  • Avis
  • Budget Car Rental
  • Zipcar
  • British Airways Holidays
  • British Airways Lounge Pass
  • ParkVia Airport Parking
  • Heathrow Express
  • Heathrow Valet Parking
  • Barclays
  • Red By Dufry
  • Nectar
  • The Wine Flyer
  • Heathrow Rewards
  • The Bicester CollectionTM
  • High Life Shop
  • American Express Membership Rewards
  • HSBC Credit Card Rewards Programme
  • Uber
  • BPme Rewards
  • Capital on Tap - Business Rewards Credit Card
  • Avios For Thoughts
  • eRewards
  • Nutmeg
Tiers & Benefits
There are 4 tiers of membership that you can join—Blue, Bronze, Silver, and Gold. Your award miles and the way you redeem them will differ depending on which membership tier you are part of. You automatically become a Blue Member as soon as you join the British Airways Executive Club.
Tier Names
Blue
Bronze
Silver
Gold
Qualifications
As soon as you join
Earn 300 Tier Points and fly 2 eligible flights with BA OR fly 25 eligible BA or Iberia flights
Earn 600 Tier Points and fly 4 eligible flights with BA OR fly 50 eligible BA flights
Earn 1500 Tier Points and fly 4 eligible BA flights
Share Avios with a household account
Gift Avios
Transfer Avios for free
For a fee
::yes::For a fee
For a fee
Combine Avios
Priority waitlist
Seating preference stored and offered where possible
Meal preferences stored and offered where possible
Priority check-in
Priority boarding
Free seat selection
24 hours before departure (not including travel on basic fare)
7 days before departure
At time of booking
At time of booking
Lounge access when flying with British Airways and partner airlines
Use of British Airways First and other oneworld® First Class check-in desks
Extra baggage allowance
Reservation assurance
No booking or service fees for Priority Reward bookings
Gold Priority Reward
Additional reward flight availability in Economy
Gold Upgrade for Two voucher (at 2,500 Tier Points in one year)
Two Gold Upgrade for One vouchers (at 3,500 Tier Points in one year)
One Gold Executive Club partner card and two Silver cards (at 5,000 Tier Points in one year and 3,000 Tier Points thereafter)
Concorde Room access (at 5,000 Tier Points in one year and 3,00 Tier Points thereafter)
Status freeze for Maternity/Paternity/Adoption
Bonus Avios on flights with Japan Airlines
25%
50%
100%

Flying Blue

This union between AirFrance, KLM, and Transavia is considered one of the most popular loyalty programs in the world. Earning miles on air travel with them is easy, as is finding desirable airfare options with their Promo Rewards. Discounts can often reach up to 50% off on trips to specific cities around the world!
Partner Airlines:
  • Aerolíneas Argentinas
  • AeroMexico
  • Air Corsica
  • AirEuropa
  • Air France
  • Air Mauritius
  • airBaltic
  • Aircalin
  • Bangkok Airways
  • Chalair Aviation
  • China Airlines
  • China Eastern
  • China Southern Airlines
  • Copa Airlines
  • Czech Airlines
  • Delta
  • Etihad Airways
  • Garuda Indonesia
  • GOL
  • Japan Airlines
  • Kenya Airways
  • KLM
  • Korean Air
  • Malaysia Airlines
  • Middle East Airlines
  • Qantas
  • Saudia
  • TAROM
  • Transavia
  • Twin Jet
  • Vietnam Airlines
  • Virgin Atlantic
  • WestJet
  • Winair
  • Xiamen Airlines
Top Partner Companies:
  • Bose
  • Apple
  • Tumi
  • Fitbit
  • Rituals
Tiers & Benefits
You can actually start claiming award tickets with a relatively low number of miles thanks to the Promo Rewards feature offered. Flying Blue provides a great tool for finding seats and issues interesting new award programs and deals every month.
Tier names
Explorer
Silver
Gold
Platinum
Ultimate
Qualifications
As soon as you join
Starting with 100 XP
Starting with 180 XP
Starting with 300 XP
Starting by gaining 900 UXP (Ultimate XP) in one (1) qualification year
Miles per euro spent
4
6
7
8
9
Earn Elite bonus Miles on all partner airlines (except Bangkok Airways)
50%
75%
100%
100%
Pay with Miles and Cash
Book any seat on the plane using Miles
Extra baggage allowance
10% discount on the first checked bag on Air France and KLM flights
Upgrade with Miles
Book extra options with Miles
Preferred waitlist status
Preferred standby status
Priority travel service with SkyPriority
Upgrade to La Première on Air France flights
Complimentary one-cabin upgrades
Four vouchers per membership year
Miles overdraft on rewards tickets
SkyTeam Status
Elite
Elite Plus
Elite Plus
Elite Plus
Priority check-in
SkyPriority
SkyPriority
SkyPriority
Priority baggage drop-off
SkyPriority
SkyPriority
SkyPriority
Priority baggage handling
SkyPriority
SkyPriority
SkyPriority
Free standard seat selection on Air France and KLM operated flights
During check-in
Upgrade last-minute before boarding the aircraft
Priority boarding
Boarding zone 3
SkyPriority
SkyPriority
SkyPriority
Extra legroom on Air France and KLM operated flights
Available 24 hours before departure
Available 72 hours before departure
At time of booking
At time of booking
Front section seat on Air France and KLM operated flights
Available 24 hours before departure
Available 72 hours before departure
At time of booking
At time of booking
Seat in a row of 2 on Air France and KLM operated flights
Available 24 hours before departure
Available 72 hours before departure
At time of booking
At time of booking
Economy Comfort seat (only available on KLM operated flights)
Available 72 hours before departure
At time of booking
At time of booking
Guaranteed seat in Economy
Priority at immigration and security with SkyPriority
Delta Air Lines operated flights: Delta Comfort+ seat
25% discount
50% discount
Kenya Airways operated flights: Standard seat selection
During check-in
Kenya Airways operated flights: Preferred seat
Available 24 hours before departure
Available 72 hours before departure
At time of booking
At time of booking
Kenya Airways operated flights: Extra legroom
Available 24 hours before departure
Available 72 hours before departure
At time of booking
At time of booking
Kenya Airways operated flights: Economy Comfort
Available 72 hours before departure
At time of booking
At time of booking
Air Mauritius operated flights: Standard seat selection
GOL operated flights: GOL+ Conforto
Lounge access
Fees apply
Free for you + one (1) guest
Free for you + one (1) guest
Free for you + up to eight (8) guests
Miles never expire
Gain XP to maintain tier or move up a tier
Roll over surplus XP
Dedicated service line
Premium Service Line
Premium Service Line
Premium Service Line
Ultimate Assistant
Waived service fees
Change/Refund
One Flying Blue Platinum card for one of your travel companions
Hertz Platinum card
Maintain your Silver, Gold, or Platinum status after personal leave
Lifelong membership
After 10 consecutive years of Platinum
After 10 consecutive years of Platinum

Virgin Atlantic Flying Club

Gather frequent flyer miles with the Virgin Atlantic Flying Club and redeem them particularly well with Delta, specifically. You can collect award seats for very reasonable sums, and can even put them on hold for free for 24 hours before transferring points.
Partner Airlines:
  • Aerolíneas Argentinas
  • AeroMexico
  • AirEuropa
  • China Airlines
  • China Eastern
  • Czech Airlines
  • Delta
  • Garuda Indonesia
  • ITA Airways
  • Kenya Airways
  • KLM
  • Korean Air
  • Middle East Airlines
  • Saudia
  • TAROM
  • Vietnam Airlines
  • Xiamen Air
  • Air France
  • Singapore Airlines
  • Air New Zealand
  • Virgin Australia
  • ANA
  • Hawaiian Airlines
  • IndiGo
  • LATAM Airlines
  • Scandinavian Airlines
  • South African Airways
Top Partner Companies:
  • American Express
  • Virgin Holidays
  • Virgin Hotels
  • Virgin Galactic
  • Hyatt Hotels
  • Marriott Bonvoy
  • Yotel
  • Best Western Hotels & Resorts
  • Hilton Hotels
  • Appleyard London
  • Hotel Chocolat
  • Selfridges
  • Pandora
  • Nespresso
  • lookfantastic
  • Harvey Nichols
  • Fortnum & Mason
  • Harrods
  • Sephora UK
  • Lego UK
  • Very
  • Net-A-Porter
  • B&Q
  • Goldsmiths
  • eBay UK
  • John Lewis & Partners
  • Just Eat
  • Parcel2Go
  • Screwfix
  • Coach
  • Swaine
  • Sim Local UK
  • Verisure
  • UK Rugby Store
Tiers & Benefits
If there's one thing Virgin Atlantic does well, it's giving you perks. From giving you the opportunity to earn points on every flight to clubhouse guest passes, this program's got it all! It's especially good for frequent flyers traveling to London often. If you connect your Flying Club account to a free Virgin Red rewards club account, you’ll rack up points even faster.
Tier names
Red
Silver
Gold
Earn points on every flight
Additional bonus points per flight
30%
60%
Gold Reward Seat
Up to 8 sectors per membership year
Guaranteed Y seat
Points + money
Points + money
Free seat selection ahead of your flight in Economy cabins
7 days prior to departure for member only
Anytime for you and your party
Free seat selection ahead of your flight in Premium
Anytime for member only
Upper Class Check-in flying in any cabin
Premium Check-in flying in any cabin
Extra hold baggage
Clubhouse passes for you and a guest when flying in any cabin
Access to London Heathrow Rivals Lounge
Earn Virgin Points on Virgin Holidays and Flight + Hotel (lead booker only)
Earn Tier Points with Virgin Holidays and Flight + Hotel (lead booker only)
Earn Tier Points on every flight including redemptions
Tier renewal bonus
Enroll your children without any age restriction
2,000 bonus birthday points
Complimentary companion ticket upon yearly renewal of Gold tier
Clubhouse passes for you to keep or share when you earn 1,500 Tier Points within your membership year
Cabin Upgrade Reward when you earn 2,000 Tier Points within your membership year
Supplementary Silver membership for a friend
Guaranteed Economy seat on any flight
Status extension for maternity, paternity and adoption
Dedicated Flying Club phone line
Household account for up to nine (9) people
Gift companion and upgrade vouchers to your loved ones
Discounted access and earn points and No1 Lounges
Airline partner airport extras
Member benefits with Virgin Hotels

Factors to consider when choosing the best frequent flyer program

Whether elite status is the goal or whether you’re simply trying to save money on business travel expenses, there are certain factors to take into account before committing to a frequent flyer program. This will help you determine how beneficial the airline miles program is for your organization, and optimize your business travel program in general.
Here are 4 factors to consider before choosing the best airline rewards program.

1. Where you travel and how often

This is probably the most important factor to consider when choosing your frequent flyer program. In short, there’s little point in choosing a frequent flier program with all the bells and whistles if you’re not actually going to benefit from it.
The most influential factor here is whether you fly more domestically or internationally, or whether there’s a mix of both. Not only will you have a bigger and more suitable
flight inventory
to choose from, but you’ll have more chances to earn miles and book reward air travel in the future.
Plus, choosing a frequent flyer program solely based on its points policy is a big no-no. Although you might earn more points with a certain program, you may end up making more or multiple connections if you choose an airline that doesn’t align with your base location and destinations, resulting in a huge waste of travel time for frequent travelers.

2. Whether points are accrued based on miles traveled or money spent

Frequent flyer loyalty programs and airline loyalty schemes have, traditionally, rewarded customers based on the number of miles they fly. However, it’s now also common to reward the customers that spend more money with them, resulting in reward programs that combine both the number of miles flown and the amount of money spent.
Which type of points accrual is best will depend on your business and the balance of long and short-haul journeys made and the type of airfare you regularly choose.

3. Which partners the program offers

Many airlines have both partner airlines and partner hotels, travel companies, and credit card providers, which makes earning miles much easier. Choosing a frequent flyer loyalty program with relevant partners for your needs can greatly expand the range of available destinations, as well as the chance to earn and redeem more frequent flyer miles for free flights.
Not only does this increase the flexibility you have with your travel plans, but you can also benefit from credit card reward programs, hotel partnerships, and many other perks.

4. What exactly is redeemable

Frequent flyer miles are regularly used for reward flights, but check to see what else is on offer with each airline rewards program, and how exactly you can spend your points. For example, some airlines might only offer certain flights when you redeem your points, while others may not allow you to redeem 100% of the flight cost.
If you’re looking for a program that will allow you to redeem miles for more than just free flights, check whether each program offers perks such as upgrading to extra legroom, having access to airport lounges, or putting your points towards hotel stays and car hires.
A woman working on a laptop while waiting at an airport terminal.

Unlock exclusive flight deals. Save money on business travel today.

Train Plane Travel

Make business travel simpler. Forever.

  • See our platform in action
    . Trusted by thousands of companies worldwide, TravelPerk makes business travel simpler to manage with more flexibility, full control of spending with easy reporting, and options to offset your carbon footprint.
  • Find hundreds of resources on all things business travel, from tips on traveling more sustainably, to advice on setting up a business travel policy, and managing your expenses.
    Our latest e-books
    and
    blog posts
    have you covered.
  • Never miss another update. Stay in touch with us
    on social
    for the latest product releases, upcoming events, and articles fresh off the press.