Taking off Travel blog

Here is what you need to know about frequent flyer programs.

This continues our short series on Frequent Flyer Programs. Read Part 1 here.

Check Out The Fine Print

While many people skate over the fine print, this is a mistake when selecting a frequent flyer program. This will have details of how miles are calculated, what restrictions there are on travel, when you can’t use miles (known as blackout dates), fees, taxes (you didn’t think you would escape those, did you?) and the policy on flight cancellations. These issues will determine whether a particular program really suits your travel habits.

Other Benefits Of FFPs

When you have racked up thousands of miles, you may get other benefits, in addition to discounted travel. For example, you might get preferential treatment for check-in or boarding, access to a special lounge, flight upgrades, additional free tickets or a reduction in blackout dates. Whether you are just starting out with a frequent flyer program or already have your airline’s gold card, redeeming the miles is simple. All you need to do is have your frequent flyer number ready when booking. Check to make sure that you are really getting value for money. The fine print may tell you what those miles are worth in cash, so make sure you wouldn’t be better off just paying for your ticket. Read more »

Are you a frequent flyer? Here are some tips on frequent flyer programs

If you’re a traveler, then you probably belong to one or more frequent flyer programs. Whether you travel for business or pleasure, having that little card in your wallet guarantees you a range of benefits. Frequent flyer programs are loyalty programs which airlines use to reward you for traveling with them often. For them, it’s a customer retention strategy. For you, it’s the passport to lower fares and other benefits.

 
History Of Frequent Flyer Programs

Frequent flyer programs in the US have been around for almost 30 years, with the first one started by American Airlines in 1981. The AAdvantage program was soon copied by airlines across the country, looking for ways to keep their customers flying with them. It was simple - you earned a mile for every mile traveled and when you had enough you could use these for free tickets or rebates.

To sweeten the deal, airlines hooked up with other companies in the travel industry such as car rental firms and hotels, so that travelers could get and redeem miles from more places. The concept has spread across the industry, with many travel industry professionals offering programs for staying at the same hotel, renting cars from the same hotel or even booking offsite airport parking with the same company. Read more »