Summer vacation is just around the corner and many people will be taking to the skies to reach their dream destinations. But before that, be sure to sign up for a frequent flyer program to make sure you get the most out of your travel benefits. But which one exactly should you sign up for? WalletHub has the answer.
The personal finance website has released a report on the Best Frequent Flyer Programs of 2024. The report ranks the nation's 10 largest airlines based on 21 key metrics, from point/mile value to award blackout dates. The team also found that each traveler has a “light flyer” who spends about $355 on air travel per year, an “average flyer” who spends about $3,736 on air travel per year, and an airline ticket that costs $7,117 per year. See how the program applies.
Alaska Mileage Plan named Best Frequent Flyer Program of 2024
After considering all the data, WalletHub named Alaska Airlines' program the best in the industry.
“Alaska Mileage Plan beats last year's winner United MileagePlus to be the best frequent flyer program in 2024,” WalletHub wrote in its findings. This airline won thanks to its never-for-expiration policy, variety of destinations and partner airlines, and value earned by all categories of travelers (light, average, and frequent).
United Airlines rounded out the top five programs, with its MileagePlus program in second place, followed by Delta Air Lines' SkyMiles, Hawaiian Airlines' Hawaiian Miles, and American Airlines' AAdvantage.
The good news is that no matter which program you choose, you have a good chance of winning. According to WalletHub, 7 out of 10 major airlines are offering “more perks in 2024 than in 2023. On average, the top 10 airlines are offering 18% more value than last year. We offer
“A good sustainable airline rewards program should be a win-win situation. Consumers can earn benefits such as priority boarding and free checked baggage. become more loyal to the airline, purchase more products, and spread more positive word-of-mouth over time,” said Collins University Associate Professor of Hospitality Management and Associate Editor of the International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management. Wang Yan says. We shared our findings on why some programs are better than others. “During that time, they will accumulate more miles with that company, making the cost of ‘brand switching’ higher. Ultimately, airlines will receive greater long-term benefits from loyal consumers, or more “lifetime value” from them. ”
In addition to the survey, WalletHub also shared a custom calculator that allows travelers to customize the best frequent flyer results based on their budget. This way, you can always choose the one that suits you best.
(Feature image credit: d3sign/Getty Images)
This article first appeared on travelandleisure.com.
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