In December, British Airways caused quite a stir with frequent customers by overhauling its loyalty programme.
From 1 April 2025, Executive Club will be renamed The British Airways Club, with access to elite status now acquired by high spending for “tier points” with the airline.
Previously, tier points had been earned according to the number of miles flown rather than the amount of money a passenger had spent.
BA isn’t the only airline with a loyalty scheme for flyers, with programmes from Virgin Atlantic, Emirates and American Airlines also rewarding passengers for regularly taking off.
In fact, Scottish airline Loganair recently announced that it will adopt Avios as its loyalty ‘currency’ in 2025, with “one million seats” available for redemption each year.
As carriers move to win over regular customers with elite status, which airlines provide frequent flyers with the best perks, and how do their loyalty schemes work?
Read more: Should budget airlines have loyalty schemes?
How do frequent flyer programmes work?
Frequent flyer programmes allow members to convert air travel into currency, usually in points or miles, and earn rewards. These points can normally be redeemed for different value discounts on future travel including airport lounge access, baggage and seat upgrades.
Enrolling for membership is free on most airlines with programmes so passengers can start collecting air miles when they spend on flights.
In some cases, airline alliances – partnerships between carriers to share loyalty schemes – make it possible to claim travel perks across multiple airlines.
The more miles travelled, the higher the determined membership “status” and rewards up for grabs per passenger.
What are Avios points?
Avios points are the frequent-flyer currency used by British Airways and other members of the IAG conglomerate, as well as Finnair and Qatar Airways.
Some airlines use credit cards, such as American Express, to allow you to earn Avios, and other airlines reward points for every pound you spend – combined with the points you earn from flying.
Which airlines have loyalty schemes?
British Airways, IAG – The British Airways Club
British Airways Executive Club – soon The British Airways…
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