Frequent-flyer program facts for kids

A frequent-flyer program is a special way for airlines to say "thank you" to their best customers. If you fly often with the same airline, they reward you! People in these programs earn points, often called "miles," every time they fly. These miles are like a special currency. You can use them to get free flights, upgrades to better seats, or even other cool products and services.

Many airlines work together in groups called airline alliances. This means you can often earn and use your miles with different airlines that are part of the same group. Sometimes, airlines also share flights through a codeshare agreement, which can also help you earn miles. The very first airline to start a frequent-flyer program was American Airlines.

What is a Frequent-Flyer Program?

A frequent-flyer program is a loyalty program offered by an airline. It's designed to encourage people to fly with that airline again and again. Think of it like a rewards card for a store, but for flying! When you join, you get a special account where your miles are stored.

How Do You Earn Miles?

The main way to earn miles is by flying with the airline or its partners. The more you fly, and the farther you go, the more miles you usually earn. But flying isn't the only way! You can also earn miles by:

• Using a special credit card linked to the airline's program.
• Staying at certain hotels.
• Renting cars from partner companies.
• Shopping at specific stores or online.

What Can You Do With Miles?

Once you have enough miles, you can "redeem" them. This means you can exchange them for exciting rewards. The most popular rewards include:

• Free flights: This is often the best use of your miles. You can fly to new places without paying for the ticket!
• Upgrades: You can use miles to move from economy class to business or first class, making your flight much more comfortable.
• Hotel stays: Some programs let you use miles for nights at partner hotels.
• Car rentals: You might be able to rent a car using your miles.
• Other products and services: Depending on the program, you might find other items like gift cards or merchandise.

Why Do Airlines Have These Programs?

Airlines offer frequent-flyer programs for a few important reasons:

• To build loyalty: They want you to choose their airline over others.
• To encourage more travel: The promise of rewards makes people want to fly more often.
• To gather data: They learn about their customers' travel habits, which helps them offer better services.

These programs can be a great way to save money on travel and enjoy extra perks if you fly regularly.

Images for kids

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  United MileagePlus cards

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  Frequent flyer program rules can be complex; this 1988 pamphlet from TWA's program ran to 27 pages