Frequent Flyer Programs Guide
Understand status earning and benefits in frequent flyer programs.
Understanding Frequent Flyer Programs
Frequent flyer programs let eligible travelers earn miles, points or status credit through flights and partner activity. Benefits and tier rules vary by airline and program year.
Travelers may be able to earn miles through flying, credit card spending, hotels, car rentals and other partner activity, depending on eligibility and program rules.
Elite Status Tiers
Gold Status
Benefits:
- Priority boarding
- Checked-bag benefit may apply
- Seat selection
Platinum Status
Benefits:
- Priority boarding
- Checked-bag benefits may apply
- Upgrade priority
- Lounge access
Executive Status
Benefits:
- Priority boarding
- Checked-bag benefits may apply
- Complimentary upgrades
- Premium lounge access
How to Earn Miles
Flying
Earn miles based on fare, distance, cabin, airline and program rules
Credit Cards
Use eligible airline credit cards when the earning rate fits your spending
Hotels
Stay at eligible partner hotels when the program offers airline-mile earning
Car Rentals
Rent through eligible partners when mileage earning is available
Major Frequent Flyer Programs
| Airline | Program | Entry Elite | Mid Elite | Top Elite |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | AAdvantage | Check program year | Check program year | Check program year |
| Delta Air Lines | SkyMiles | Check program year | Check program year | Check program year |
| United Airlines | MileagePlus | Check program year | Check program year | Check program year |
| Southwest Airlines | Rapid Rewards | Check program year | Check program year | Check program year |
| JetBlue Airways | TrueBlue | Check program year | Check program year | Check program year |
| Alaska Airlines | Mileage Plan | Check program year | Check program year | Check program year |
Practical Tips for Maximizing Miles
Focus on One Airline
Concentrating eligible activity in one program can make status tracking easier.
Use Airline Credit Cards
Some co-branded cards can help with earning or status, but benefits depend on card terms.
Book Higher Fare Classes
Premium cabins or higher fare classes may earn more in some programs; check the earning chart.
Don't Wait Until Year-End
Track qualification progress early so you can decide whether status is worth pursuing.
Check Status Requirements
Requirements can change annually - stay updated on program changes.
Consider Status Challenges
Some airlines offer status challenges for new members or status matches.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do elite status benefits last?
Elite-status validity depends on the program year and airline rules. Many programs require requalification each year, but timing and grace periods vary.
Do miles expire?
Mileage expiration rules vary. Some programs expire miles after inactivity, some pause expiration for eligible members, and some do not use traditional expiration. Check your program's current policy.
Can I transfer miles between programs?
Some airlines allow transfers between family members or to partner programs, but transfers between different airline programs are generally not allowed.
What's the difference between miles and points?
Programs use terms differently. Airline miles or points may be earned through flights, cards or partners and can have different redemption rules.