AirlinesMake it easier to stick to the program
OverEach airline has had a different approach over the past 18 months to retaining its largest spenders. However, their goal is the exact same: to make it easier to retain status. Alaska AirlinesFor all 2021 flights,, for example will offer a 50% bonus on mileage to customers. United AirlinesThe minimum number of flights and amount of spending required to get to each level in its loyalty program has been reduced. For instance, Premier SilverThe lowest tier is attainable with 12 flights and 3,000 points (related dollars spent), rather than 16 flights with 4,000 points.
UnitedAlso, she has hosted dinners for her friends. PremierFliers need to be able to identify their priorities when they return to flying. “We’re committed to being flexible,” said Michael CoveyThe managing director of United’s MileagePlus program. “We are monitoring demand and making adjustments.”
American AirlinesThe minimum requirements for 2021 have been reduced and the program for 2022 has been greatly simplified. Currently, GoldThe lowest level can be obtained for 20,000 miles, 20 flight segments, and $2,000 in spending. This is down from 25,000 or 30 flight segments and $3,000 spending. Beginning in 2022, the airline recently announced, it will simplify its AAdvantage program so that branded credit card spending and flights would contribute to a single sum of “Loyalty Points,” rather than asking fliers to reach separate spending and flying thresholds.
Delta Air Lines is extending all frequent fliers’ status an additional year, through January2023 and any miles flown in 2021, 2022 towards status in 2023. Travelers get bonus miles when they fly, and for the first time, earn miles on “award” flights — those purchased with miles. TravelersPriority will be given to those who flew and spent enough money to meet the status requirements, rather than those who have their status extended to get free upgrades.
EarningSpending more points on the ground
AllMajor airlines offer branded credit cards that allow customers the ability to accumulate miles or points that can be used for flights. They also continued to offer tens to thousands of points to encourage people to buy in during the pandemic. Alaska AirlinesAfter the first three months of credit card use, the card holder earns $2,000 in purchases. This entitles them to 50,000 bonus miles as well as a low-priced companion ticket. Recent Delta Sky Miles Platinum American Express CardOffer promised 90,000 miles which could be used for flights and 10,000 Medallion Qualification MilesThis could be used to attain status levels after spending $3,000 in the first three month, and paying an annual fee of $250.
Source: NY Times
