Do airline points expire?

Do airline points expire?

What are airline points?

Airline points, also known as frequent flyer miles or loyalty points, are rewards given to frequent flyers by airlines. These points are typically earned when passengers purchase flights or use co-branded credit cards for their travel expenses. Accumulating airline points allows travelers to enjoy benefits such as free flights, upgrades, access to airport lounges, and more.

Do airline points expire?

Yes, airline points can expire depending on the airline's policies. Each airline has its own set of rules regarding the expiration of points, and it's crucial for travelers to familiarize themselves with these policies to make the most of their rewards.

Airlines with no expiration policy

Luckily, several airlines have adopted a no-expiration policy for their loyalty points. Delta Air Lines, for example, introduced this policy in 2011, meaning that their SkyMiles never expire. JetBlue's TrueBlue points also do not have an expiration date, giving travelers peace of mind.

Airlines with expiration policies

On the other hand, many airlines do have expiration policies for their frequent flyer miles. For instance, United Airlines requires its MileagePlus members to have account activity at least once every 18 months to prevent their points from expiring. American Airlines and British Airways have similar policies, with their points expiring after 18 months of account inactivity.

Preventing point expiration

To prevent your airline points from expiring, it's essential to keep your account active. This can be done by simply earning or redeeming points regularly. Even activities such as online shopping through the airline's partners or using their co-branded credit cards can count as account activity and extend the expiration date.

Renewing expired points

If your airline points do expire, don't fret just yet. Some airlines offer options to renew or reinstate expired points for a fee. For example, American Airlines allows members to reinstate their expired points for a fee of $200. However, this option might not be available for all airlines, so it's crucial to check the specific policies of the airline you are affiliated with.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while airline points can expire, it ultimately depends on the policies of the airline. It is important to understand the expiration policies of the airline you are collecting points with to ensure you make the most of your rewards. Keeping your account active through regular point earning or redemption is the best way to prevent your points from expiring. Remember to stay informed and make the most out of your airline loyalty program!

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, airline points can expire if they are not used within a certain period of time.

The expiration period for airline points varies depending on the airline and their loyalty program. It can range from a few months to several years.

Some airlines offer options to extend the expiration date of your airline points. This may involve paying a fee or taking certain actions such as making a purchase with a co-branded credit card or flying with the airline.

If your airline points expire, they will usually be removed from your account and you will no longer be able to use them for flights or other rewards.

Yes, there are several ways you can keep your airline points from expiring. Some options include regularly earning or redeeming points, using a co-branded credit card that offers points protection, or transferring points to a partner program to reset the expiration date.