Frequent flyer programs are used by many airlines to foster a sense of loyalty among passengers, who can earn points or miles that are redeemable for free flights, upgrades, hotel stays, car rentals or shopping. Everybody should participate in these programs as they can save you tons of money by traveling (almost for) free as well as offer you many other perks (signing up is free of charge and truly a no-brainer). The last couple of years, frequent flyer programs took a turn for the worse in the USA, with the three largest programs going revenue based, meaning that miles are awarded based on the members’ spend rather than according to the number of miles traveled. The rest of the world is now quickly following with several major European and Asian loyalty programs becoming revenue based as well later this year.
Whether you are a frequent flyer of just an occasional traveler, it’s always a good idea to choose a frequent flyer program. To help you, I have published reviews of the world’s major loyalty programs in the world, although the one that fits you best will depend on your own travel behavior, your location, your credit card spending, and your expectations (loyalty benefits, easy award bookings, or number of airline partners). I will add more program reviews in 2018; meanwhile I invite you to read my top 10 list of the best frequent flyer programs in the world.
Below, you find my in-depth reviews (with pros & cons) of the following frequent flyer programs:
- AAdvantage (American Airlines)
- Executive Club (British Airways)
- Flying Blue (Air France & KLM)
- KrisFlyer (Singapore Airlines)
- Mileage Plan (Alaska Airlines)
- Miles&More (Lufthansa)
- SkyMiles (Dellta Air Lines)
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