Frequent flyer programs offer one of the best ways to make air travel more affordable by allowing travellers to redeem miles for free flights. But how many miles to get a free flight? The answer depends on several factors, such as the airline, the type of flight, and your destination. Flight availability, demand, and whether you’re booking economy or business class can also impact the miles required.

Some airlines have special promotions or saver awards that will cut down the air miles you need in half, so keep an eye out for these.

Here’s how many miles you typically need for free flights with popular airlines –

 

1. American Airlines (AAdvantage® Program)

In American Airlines’ AAdvantage Program, award flights start at approximately 7,500 miles for short domestic flights within the contiguous U.S. Longer domestic and international flights require more miles. You’ll need between 7,500 to 20,000 miles for domestic flights in economy class. Booking can help you get flights with lower mileage, even in high seasons.

The general trend is that for an international economy ticket to Europe, you need 20,000 to 30,000 miles. For a flight to Asia, you typically need 30,000 to 40,000 miles. Business or first-class upgrades, especially long-distance international trips, may use over 100,000 miles. Being flexible with dates and routes can reduce the miles needed for premium seats, especially when flying business class for the first time.

💁‍♀️ Also read – Economy vs. Business Class: Which Provides More Value for Money?

 

2. Delta Air Lines (SkyMiles Program)

Delta Air Lines’ SkyMiles Program does not post an award chart, so miles earned will generally differ. You can usually expect domestic economy flights on shorter routes for 8,000 to 10,000 miles, but it may vary between 8,000 and 25,000 miles for a domestic ticket. International international flights will be 35,000 to 50,000 miles for travel to Europe and 40,000 to 70,000 to Asia.

Premium cabin seats for international flights often require over 100,000 miles. It’s essential to book during off-peak times and take advantage of Delta’s periodic promotions. Using Delta’s co-branded credit cards can also help you accumulate miles faster. Watch for flash sales, as they can significantly reduce the miles needed for domestic and international flights.

Flexibility with your travel dates can also provide more significant opportunities to snag lower-mileage award seats. The best time to book flights in advance is critical to maximizing these savings.

 

3. United Airlines (MileagePlus Program)

United Airlines’ MileagePlus Program uses a dynamic pricing model similar to Delta, where the miles needed vary based on demand and other factors. Typically, award flights in the U.S. start at around 10,000 to 12,500 miles for short-haul flights. You’ll need between 10,000 to 25,000 miles for domestic flights in economy. International flights require 30,000 to 60,000 miles for Europe and 35,000 to 70,000 for Asia.

They also offer saver awards that can significantly reduce the miles needed if booked early. Frequent travellers can benefit from United’s valuable partnerships with Star Alliance members, providing greater flexibility. It allows flexible mile redemption across different budget airlines. Booking during less busy off-peak times can also lower the miles required for domestic and international routes, maximizing savings.

 

4. Southwest Airlines (Rapid Rewards Program)

Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Program uniquely ties the required miles directly to the fare price when redeeming miles. The cheaper the fare, the fewer miles you need to redeem. The points are valued at around 1.4 cents each, meaning a $100 ticket will require approximately 7,100 points. This dynamic pricing model makes it easy to predict how many points you’ll need based on ticket prices.

For domestic flights, you’ll typically need between 7,000 to 20,000 points. International flights start at around 20,000 points for nearby destinations like –

 

• Mexico
• Caribbean

 

Its flexibility, generous policies, and no blackout dates make it a top choice for travellers. They offer two free checked bags, enhancing its appeal for budget-conscious flyers.

💡 Related – Is it Worth it to Get a Southwest Credit Card?

 

5. Alaska Airlines (Mileage Plan Program)

The Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan Program follows a more traditional award chart. Domestic flights typically require 5,000 to 15,000 miles for shorter routes within the U.S. For economy class domestic flights, you would need 5,000-25,000 miles; Europe would cost 30,000-50,000 miles, while Asia would come in at 35,000-60,000 miles. Alaska Airlines also partners with an array of international carriers.

They allow you to redeem miles for flights with airlines like –

 

• British Airways
• Cathay Pacific

 

It offers more flexibility for global travel. It is known for providing generous stopovers, allowing travellers to explore another city without additional miles. Travelers highly regard the program’s ease of use and valuable mile redemption opportunities. Its frequent promotions provide even more opportunities to maximize your miles and savings.

 

6. JetBlue (TrueBlue Program)

JetBlue’s TrueBlue mileage program directly ties the miles required to the flight’s cash price. It operates in a similar way to Southwest’s program. It typically values TrueBlue points at around 1.4 cents each. For domestic flights, you’ll need between 5,000 to 20,000 points. International flights range from 15,000 to 40,000 points, with Caribbean destinations usually requiring fewer points.

They also offer family pooling, allowing members to combine credit card points for faster rewards. The program has no blackout dates, making redeeming points any time easier. Frequent travellers appreciate the simplicity and flexibility of the TrueBlue program, especially for last-minute bookings. It also partners with various other airlines, giving travellers even more options to use their points for global travel.

 

7. Hawaiian Airlines (HawaiianMiles Program)

Hawaiian Airlines’ HawaiianMiles Program offers award flights with a minimum of about 7,500 miles for an inter-island flight. Most flights in the U.S. mainland going to Hawaii start at 20,000 miles in economy class; flights to Hawaii range from 20,000 to 30,000 miles. International flights requiring anywhere from 40,000 to 65,000 miles go to places like Asia or Australia in economy class.

It makes the program appealing to travellers seeking to explore the Pacific region. They also allow members to earn miles on partner airlines, expanding redemption opportunities. The program offers frequent promotions, enabling travellers to save miles during special booking periods. HawaiianMiles members enjoy flexible redemption options, including upgrades and companion tickets.

Recommended read – Fly Smarter with Hawaiian Miles: The Ultimate Loyalty Program Guide

 

Factors That Affect How Many Miles You Need

Being aware of these factors can help you plan better and save miles. This knowledge enables you to make smarter decisions when booking flights and unlock more excellent value from your frequent flyer program. You can also take advantage of promotions and stretch your rewards by strategically using your miles.

Here are several factors that can affect how many miles you need for a free flight –

 

• Demand and Availability – Airlines often use dynamic pricing, meaning the miles required can increase during peak travel periods.
• Flight Class – Economy seats cost significantly fewer miles than business or first-class seats.
• Airline Partners – Some airlines allow you to redeem miles for flights on their partner airlines, and these awards can require different amounts of miles.
• Promotions and Deals – Airlines occasionally offer special deals that allow you to redeem fewer miles for specific routes or off-peak travel periods.

 

 

How to Maximize Your Miles for Free Flights

Maximizing your miles requires a strategic approach. Following simple tips, you can stretch your rewards and get the most out of your frequent flyer program. You can unlock valuable deals and savings by being proactive and planning.

Here’s how to do it effectively –

 

• Book in Advance – Booking your award flights can often secure better deals, especially for long-haul international flights.
• Look for Saver Awards – Many airlines offer saver award levels requiring fewer miles. These seats are limited, so it’s essential to book early.
• Use Airline Credit Cards – Co-branded airline credit cards often come with perks like bonus miles for spending, which can help you accumulate miles faster.
• Consider Partner Airlines – Many airlines are part of alliances (such as Star Alliance or Oneworld) that allow you to redeem miles with partner airlines, sometimes at a better rate.
• Monitor Mileage Promotions – Sign up for your frequent flyer program’s newsletter to stay informed of any promotions offering discounted award flights.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 

1. Do miles expire?

Some airlines have mileage expiration policies, while others allow you to keep your miles as long as there’s account activity. It’s essential to check the expiration policy of your frequent flyer program to keep your miles.

 

2. Can miles be pooled with family members?

Some airlines, like JetBlue, offer family pooling options where members can combine their miles to reach rewards faster.

 

3. What’s the fastest way to earn miles?

Using co-branded credit cards, booking flights with airline partners, and taking advantage of special promotions are effective ways to earn miles quickly.

 

4. Can miles be redeemed for non-flight rewards?

You can often redeem miles for hotel stays, car rentals, gift cards, or other travel-related purchases.

 

5. Can miles be transferred between accounts?

Some airlines allow you to transfer miles to another account, but they may charge a fee for this service.

 

Wrapping Up!

The miles needed for a free flight depend on the airline and the route. Like flight, class and demand also play a role. Knowing the typical ranges for major airlines shows how many miles you need. It helps you plan for your next free flight. Whether flying domestically or internationally, you can make the most of your miles by booking early. Use saver awards and airline promotions to maximize your rewards.

You can unlock the potential of your frequent flyer miles and enjoy free flights to exciting destinations worldwide.

 

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