Glossary
Frequent Flyer Miles
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.
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.