Glossary
Definition: Frequent flyer miles (or points) are loyalty currency earned by flying with an airline or its partners, and through credit card spending, which can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, lounge access, and other travel benefits.
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Term at a glance
| Term | Frequent Flyer Miles |
|---|---|
| One-liner | Frequent flyer miles (or points) are loyalty currency earned by flying with an airline or its partners, and through credit card spending, which can be redeemed for flights,… |
| Where it matters | Premium-cabin booking decisions, fare-rules interpretation, airline-product comparison. |
| Related concepts | Elite Status · Award Ticket · Mileage Run · Status Match · Companion Ticket |
| Last verified | 2026-05-07 |
Frequent flyer programmes were pioneered by American Airlines’ AAdvantage in 1981 and have since become a multi-billion dollar industry. Every major airline operates a loyalty programme where members earn miles or points for travel and spending.
Miles can be earned through: flying on the airline or its alliance partners, using co-branded credit cards, shopping through airline portals, hotel stays, car rentals, and purchasing directly from the airline. Redemption options include award flights, cabin upgrades, lounge access, hotel stays, and merchandise.
For business class travellers, frequent flyer programmes offer substantial value. Business class tickets typically earn 150–300% of the flight distance in miles, and elite status earned through flying unlocks complimentary upgrades, lounge access, and priority services even when flying economy. BookMyBusinessClass consolidator tickets are eligible for mileage earning on all major airlines.
In booking practice
At a Glance
| Term | Quick definition | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Flat Bed | A flat bed is a business or first class seat that converts into a fully horizontal sleeping surface,… | Read |
| Full-Service Carrier | A full-service carrier (FSC) is a traditional airline offering a comprehensive range of services including… | Read |
| First Class | First class is the highest cabin class on a commercial aircraft, offering the most spacious seating, premium… | Read |
| GDS (Global Distribution System) | A GDS (Global Distribution System) is a computerised reservation network used by travel agents to search,… | Read |
| Fifth Freedom Flight | A fifth freedom flight is a route operated by an airline between two foreign countries as part of a longer… | Read |
| Global Entry | Global Entry is a US Customs and Border Protection trusted-traveler program that provides expedited clearance… | Read |
Related Terms
A flat bed is a business or first class seat that converts into a fully horizontal sleeping surface, synonymous with a lie-flat seat. The term emphasises the bed-like sleeping experience rather than the seating mechanism.
A full-service carrier (FSC) is a traditional airline offering a comprehensive range of services including multiple cabin classes, included meals and baggage, lounge access, and connecting itineraries through hub networks.
First class is the highest cabin class on a commercial aircraft, offering the most spacious seating, premium dining, exclusive lounge access, and personalised service.
A GDS (Global Distribution System) is a computerised reservation network used by travel agents to search, compare, and book airline tickets, hotels, and car rentals across hundreds of suppliers in real-time.
A fifth freedom flight is a route operated by an airline between two foreign countries as part of a longer service originating or terminating in its home country, often offering unique premium products on unexpected routes.
Global Entry is a US Customs and Border Protection trusted-traveler program that provides expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk international arrivals at US airports. Membership is $100 for 5 years and includes TSA PreCheck for domestic departures.
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