The Best Frequent Flyer Programs of 2023

Frequent flyer programs are a great way to earn rewards for your travels. These programs can offer a variety of perks, such as free flights, upgrades, and early boarding. But with so many frequent flyer programs to choose from, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you.

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the best frequent flyer programs of 2023. We’ll consider factors such as ease of earning miles, redemption options, and partner airlines when ranking these programs. We’ll also provide tips on how to choose the best frequent flyer program for your needs.

Best Frequent Flyer Program

These are some of the best frequent flyer programs:

#1. American Airlines Advantage

American Airlines Advantage is often recognized as one of the best frequent flyer programs. It is praised for its ability to earn status without flying. AAdvantage also offers excellent partner redemption rates, especially on airlines like Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways.

#2. Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan

The Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan is consistently ranked among the top frequent flyer programs. It excels in rewards-earning policies, redemption policies, rewards value, geographical coverage, partner airline coverage, and other features.

#3. Delta SkyMiles

Delta SkyMiles is the frequent flyier program of Delta Air Lines. While opinions may vary, it is often considered a strong program with good redemption options and access to a wide range of partner airlines.

#4. Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer

Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer is highly regarded for its exceptional service and extensive global network. It offers competitive redemption rates, especially for premium cabin travel. KrisFlyer members can also earn miles when flying with partner airlines in the Star Alliance network.

#5. Qantas Frequent Flyer

Qantas Frequent Flyer is the loyalty program of Qantas Airways. It offers a wide range of benefits, including earning and redeeming points on Qantas flights as well as on partner airlines within the Oneworld alliance. Qantas Frequent Flyer is known for its excellent award availability and flexible redemption options.

#6. Emirates Skywards

Emirates Skywards is the frequent flyer program of Emirates Airlines. It offers a generous earning structure and a variety of redemption options, including flights on Emirates and its partner airlines. Emirates Skywards also provides unique benefits, such as access to luxurious airport lounges for its elite members.

#7. Lufthansa Miles & More

Lufthansa Miles & More is the frequent flyer program of Lufthansa, the largest airline in Germany. It offers a comprehensive rewards program with various earning and redemption options. Miles & More members can earn and redeem miles on Lufthansa flights and its Star Alliance partner airlines.

#8. Cathay Pacific Asia Miles

Cathay Pacific Asia Miles is the loyalty program of Cathay Pacific Airways, based in Hong Kong. It has an extensive network of partner airlines and offers competitive redemption rates, particularly for premium cabin travel. Asia Miles members can also earn miles through various non-airline partners.

#9. United MileagePlus

United MileagePlus is the frequent flyer program of United Airlines. It has been recognized as one of the best frequent flyer programs, offering a variety of benefits and a large network of partner airlines.

#10. Southwest Rapid Rewards

Southwest Rapid Rewards is the loyalty program of Southwest Airlines. It is known for its simplicity and flexibility, allowing members to earn and redeem points easily. However, it is important to note that Southwest primarily operates within the United States.

Best Frequent Flyer Program Credit Card

The best frequent flyer program credit cards are known for their valuable rewards programs, travel benefits, and partnerships with major airlines. These cards include

#1. Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card allows you to earn valuable Chase Ultimate Rewards points, which can be transferred to various airline partners. It offers a generous sign-up bonus, bonus points on travel and dining, and no foreign transaction fees.

#2. American Express Platinum Card

The American Express Platinum Card offers a range of benefits, including access to airport lounges, airline fee credits, and elite status with various hotel and car rental programs. It also earns Membership Rewards points, which can be transferred to multiple airline partners.

#3. Citi AAdvantage Platinum Select World Elite Mastercard

This card is co-branded with American Airlines and offers benefits such as free checked bags, priority boarding, and access to reduced mileage awards. Cardholders earn AAdvantage miles on their purchases, which can be redeemed for flights with American Airlines and its partners.

#4. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card allows you to earn miles on all purchases, which can be redeemed for travel expenses, including flights. It offers a generous sign-up bonus, no foreign transaction fees, and the ability to transfer miles to various airline partners.

#5. United Explorer Card

The United Explorer Card is co-branded with United Airlines and offers benefits such as free checked bags, priority boarding, and two United Club passes per year. Cardholders earn United MileagePlus miles on their purchases, which can be redeemed for flights with United and its partners.

#6. Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card

This card is co-branded with Delta Air Lines and offers benefits such as free checked bags, priority boarding, and discounted access to Delta Sky Club lounges. Cardholders earn Delta SkyMiles on their purchases, which can be redeemed for flights with Delta and its partners.

#7. Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Credit Card

The Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Credit Card allows you to earn Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan miles on your purchases. It offers benefits such as a companion fare each year, free checked bags, and discounted access to Alaska Lounge locations.

#8. Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card

This card is co-branded with Southwest Airlines and offers benefits such as free checked bags, priority boarding, and anniversary bonus points. Cardholders earn Southwest Rapid Rewards points on their purchases, which can be redeemed for flights with Southwest and its partners.

#9. British Airways Visa Signature Card

The British Airways Visa Signature Card allows you to earn Avios, the frequent flyer currency of British Airways. It offers a generous sign-up bonus, companion ticket vouchers, and the ability to earn a Travel Together Ticket after spending a certain amount in a year.

#10. Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card

The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card lets you earn Hilton Honors points, which you can then transfer to several airline partners, even though it isn’t technically an airline credit card. It offers benefits such as Hilton Honors Gold status, free weekend night rewards, and bonus points on Hilton stays.

Best Frequent Flyer Program For International Travel

An airline that offers benefits and rewards especially designed for travelers who frequently fly internationally has the best frequent flyer program for international travel loyalty programs. These programs allow members to earn miles or points for their flights and other qualifying activities, which can then be redeemed for various rewards such as free flights, upgrades, lounge access, and more. The best frequent flyer program for international travel depends on factors like the airline’s route network, partner airlines, redemption options, and elite status benefits. Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan, Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer, Qatar Airways Privilege Club, Emirates Skywards, and Air France-KLM Flying Blue are highly regarded programs.

Factors To Consider When Evaluating The Best Frequent Flyer Program For International Travel

#1. Airline Partnerships

Look for programs that have a wide network of partner airlines, especially those that cover major international destinations. This allows you to earn and redeem miles on multiple airlines, giving you more flexibility and options for your international travel.

#2. Redemption Options

Consider the variety of redemption options available within the program. Look for programs that offer flexible redemption options, including flights on partner airlines, upgrades to premium cabins, hotel stays, car rentals, and other travel-related benefits.

#3. Elite Status Benefits

Elite status within a frequent flyer program can provide additional perks and benefits for international travelers. These may include priority check-in, priority boarding, access to premium lounges, an increased baggage allowance, and enhanced customer service.

#4. Mileage Value

Assess the value of the miles or points earned within the program. Different programs may have varying redemption rates and availability, so it’s important to understand the value you can get from your earned miles when redeeming for international flights.

#5. Program Flexibility

Consider the program’s policies regarding blackout dates, seat availability, and the expiration of miles. Look for programs that offer flexibility in terms of booking flights, changing or canceling reservations, and extending the validity of earned miles.

#6. Global Network

Look for a program that offers a wide-reaching global network of partner airlines. This ensures that you have access to a comprehensive range of destinations and flight options when traveling internationally.

#7. Alliance Memberships

Consider programs that are part of major airline alliances such as Star Alliance, Oneworld, or SkyTeam. These alliances allow for seamless travel and benefits across multiple airlines, providing more flexibility and convenience for international trips.

#8. Award Availability

Check the availability of award seats or flights within the program. Some programs may have limited availability for international flights, especially during peak travel seasons. Ensure that the program offers reasonable access to award seats on international routes.

#9. Upgrades and Premium Cabin Access

If you frequently travel in premium cabins or aspire to do so, consider programs that offer generous opportunities for upgrades or provide access to premium cabins using miles or points. This can enhance your international travel experience.

#10. Transfer Partners

Evaluate if the program allows you to transfer points or miles from other loyalty programs. This can be beneficial if you have points or miles in other programs that you can consolidate and use for international travel.

How Do I Join The Frequent Flyer Program?

To join a frequent flyer program, choose an airline, visit their website, fill out the registration form, agree to the terms and conditions, receive a membership number or card, and start earning miles or points by flying with the airline or its partner airlines. Some programs also offer opportunities to earn miles through non-flight activities like credit card spending, hotel stays, or car rentals.

Is The Frequent Flyer Program Worth It?

The worth of a frequent flyer program depends on factors such as frequency of travel, loyalty to a specific airline, redemption opportunities, additional benefits, costs, and restrictions. It can be beneficial for frequent travelers who can maximize the rewards and perks but it may be less valuable for occasional or infrequent travelers. Nevertheless, the value of a program depends on individual preferences and travel habits.

Which Airline Has The Largest Loyalty Program?

The Delta SkyMiles program is considered one of the largest loyalty programs. It is particularly convenient for frequent flyers based in cities like Atlanta, Detroit, Los Angeles, Boston, and Salt Lake City.

What Does a Frequent Flyer Program Offer?

Frequent flyer programs offer a range of benefits and rewards to encourage customer loyalty. These include earning free flights, seat upgrades, elite status, affinity credit card partnerships, access to partner airlines, and additional perks like priority services and discounts. The specific offerings can vary between programs and airlines.

How Much Does the Frequent Flyer Program Cost?

Frequent flyer programs can be costly, depending on factors like airline membership, spending habits, and the sign-up process. Membership is free and easy, and miles or points can be earned through various methods like flying, credit card usage, or partner merchants. Redeeming miles or points can be costly, with fees ranging from $75 to $5. Annual credit card fees can range from $39 to $450. Additional fees for services like ticket changes or redepositing points may also apply.

Is A Frequent Flyer Number Free?

Yes, a frequent flyer number is free. When you join a frequent flyer program, you can sign up for a frequent flyer number directly on the airline’s website at no cost. The purpose of a frequent flyer number is to track your activity and reward you for your loyalty and travel with the airline. It is a distinctive identifier that the airline’s frequent flyer program has given you.

Conclusion

The best frequent flyer program credit cards offer valuable rewards programs, travel benefits, and partnerships with major airlines. The best frequent flyer program for international travel depends on factors like the airline’s route network, partner airlines, redemption options, elite status benefits, mileage value, program flexibility, global network, and alliance memberships. Look for programs with a wide network of partner airlines, flexible redemption options, elite status benefits, and a global network, and consider alliance memberships like Star Alliance or Oneworld.