Frequent flyer programmes demystified

If you were to add up the combined value of all the unclaimed air miles in all the world, dating back to the beginning of air travel, it would amount to a larger amount of money than exists in the world today. Now that would be quite a tab to pick up, so in order to prevent the airline industry imploding on a daily basis, air miles were fitted with expiry dates. So if you pick up air miles from a variety of different operators, you may not be able to cash any of them in before they expire. If you want to get the best value from your frequent flyer programme, you would be well advised to stick with the same operator and their scheme partners for the vast majority of your flying needs.
you could be handing over money for air fares that could be put to better use. But with so many frequent flyer programmes out there to choose from, you could be forgiven for being confused into inactivity. Perhaps the most crucial factor when deciding on an air miles scheme is the type of journeys that you most frequently make by air. For instance, you'd be stupid to sign up for a scheme attached to airlines which make relatively few flights to and from your local airport.
Most frequent flyer schemes are operated in conjunction with a number of different international airlines, so it could be well worth your while doing a little research.

Each frequent flyer programme has a different logic and set of circumstances that determine the way in which points are earned. However, there are three main types: per pound/dollar, mile for mile and per trip.
If you are making the same journeys again and again, schemes that operate on a per trip basis can often represent the best value.
Mile for mile is by far the most common arrangement, and the most flexible and transferable. However, they are often the poorest value, with five or more trips being required for each freebie, as opposed to the four or even three that are required by more rigid loyalty schemes.
The most recent entrant to the frequent flyer arena has been the per dollar/pound reward scheme. With these, you can earn points proportionate to your total outlay with operators participating in the scheme. These schemes are thought by many to represent the future of the airline loyalty scheme scene, as they are not subject to the time and usage restrictions of competing models.

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