- 18 Sep, 2024
Today, there is a lot of competition in the aviation industry, and every airline keeps trying several things to promote their business, and the Loyalty program is one of them. Some airlines also refer to loyalty programs as frequent flyer programs. The passengers are encouraged to join the locality program, and in return, the airline rewards passengers by providing them miles or points every time they fly, shop, eat, etc. The frequent flyers are well aware of the loyalty program; however, those who travel occasionally may feel what this is. In this article, we will discuss a loyalty program and how it works from some questions and answers; look to learn everything.
What is the key function of the loyalty program for an airline?
The Loyalty Program or frequent flyer program aims to encourage travelers to join the loyalty program and choose the same airline for their travel needs. From the airline's perspective, the key function of the Loyalty Program is to encourage passengers to get repeat business. The passengers earn miles and points by joining the loyalty program, which they can redeem further for booking, seat upgrades, car hire, lounge access, etc. The loyalty program helps the airline retain its customers, and they, in return, get the best deals. The loyalty program of some airlines also has a multiple-tier system, which is based on the number of points you earn. The more you level up, the more benefits you will get, such as higher cabin class upgrade price, additional baggage allowance, etc.
How do airline loyalty programs work?
Every airline has a loyalty program, and it keeps promoting it to new passengers. Passengers can sign up for the loyalty program for free by visiting the airline's official website. Once they sign up, the airline provides them some miles as new members and bonus miles. Based on the airline rules, you earn miles or points for every booking and trip you make. The miles you earn are based on how long you travel and the flight cost. Some airlines give you one mile for every dollar you spend or per mile you cover.
Some airlines also have multiple-tier systems, where the more miles you earn, the higher level or status you will achieve. Besides, if you have achieved elite status in the airline's loyalty program, you will earn maximum miles for every trip. You can redeem the earned miles or points to make free bookings, upgrade to the higher class, car rental, and lounge excess. Some airlines also allow you to transfer the miles to another member when needed. Besides, there are certain terms and conditions for using miles, so you must be aware of their rules and policies. The airlines that are in partnership with hotels and other airlines also give you the benefit of using the miles earned for that hotel booking and their partner airlines. Every airline has a different policy; you can read about them before joining their loyalty program.
What is the most valuable airline loyalty program?
As per the online records, Delta Airlines SkyMiles program is among the most valuable airline loyalty programs. The SkyMiles program has a valuation of around $28 billion. The American Airlines Advantage program is also quite valuable and comes in second position with a valuation of around $23.9 billion. In addition to these, other airlines that have great valuations for their loyalty program include:
- United Airlines - MileagePlus
- Southwest Airlines - Rapid Rewards
- British Airways - Executive Club
- Lufthansa - Miles & More
- Air France-KLM - Flying Blue
- Frontier Airlines- Frontier Miles
- Alaska Airlines - Mileage Plan
- Hawaiian Airlines- HawaiianMiles
Conclusion: Airlines introduce loyalty programs to their new travelers, ensuring they return to the airline whenever any travel requirement exists. The passenger, in return, earns miles or points every time when they book a flight with the airline. The miles earned can be redeemed for free flight booking, seat upgrades, shopping, car rental, and various other purposes based on the airline's policy. In addition, the member can also travel with the partner airline using the miles earned. The airline's loyalty program details are discussed thoroughly in the article. If you still require some information or have any concerns, you can talk to the respective airline or visit their official website.
