Earning frequent flyer miles can be a great way to save money on future flights and travel rewards. But what if you aren’t the one taking the flight – can you still earn the miles?
The answer isn’t quite as simple as a yes or no, but with some planning and coordination, it is often possible to earn miles for flights taken by someone else.
If you’re short on time, here’s the quick answer: You can’t earn miles directly for flights taken by someone else. However, you may be able to transfer points or miles you’ve earned to the other person’s frequent flyer account.
There are also options like ‘mileage runs’ where you fly just to earn miles.
Policies Vary by Airline Loyalty Program
When it comes to earning miles for someone else’s flight, the policies can vary significantly depending on the airline loyalty program you are enrolled in.
While most major airlines do not allow you to directly earn miles for flights taken by others, there are a few exceptions and workarounds that you should be aware of.
Exceptions for Family Accounts and Corporate Programs
Some airlines offer family accounts or programs that allow you to pool miles with other family members. This means that you can earn miles for flights taken by your spouse, children, or other eligible family members.
These family accounts are a great way to maximize your mileage earning potential and can be a convenient option for families who frequently travel together.
In addition to family accounts, some airlines also have corporate programs that allow companies to earn miles for the flights their employees take. This can be a valuable perk for businesses and can help offset the cost of business travel.
If you are a frequent business traveler, it’s worth checking if your company has a corporate program in place.
Partner Airlines May Have Different Policies
While the earning miles for someone else’s flight may not be allowed within a specific airline’s loyalty program, there may be opportunities to earn miles through partner airlines.
Many airlines have partnerships and alliances with other carriers, allowing you to earn and redeem miles across a wider network of flights.
These partnerships often come with their own set of rules and policies, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with the specific terms and conditions of each partnership.
For example, if you are a member of an airline’s loyalty program and that airline has a partnership with another carrier, you may be able to earn miles for flights taken on the partner airline.
This can be a great way to accumulate miles even if you are not directly flying with the airline you are a member of.
It’s important to note that the policies regarding earning miles for someone else’s flight can change over time, so it’s always a good idea to check with your airline’s loyalty program or refer to their official website for the most up-to-date information.
Transferring Points or Miles
Many frequent flyer programs understand that sometimes you may want to transfer your miles or points to someone else.
While policies vary between airlines and credit card programs, there are a few general guidelines to keep in mind.
– Many programs allow transfers between household members
If you’re looking to transfer miles to a family member, you’re in luck! Several airlines have policies that allow you to transfer miles to another person within your household. This can be a great option if you want to help a loved one reach their travel goals.
British Airways and Emirates also have similar policies. Keep in mind that there may be certain requirements or fees involved, so it’s always best to check with the specific airline for their transfer rules.
– Business and first class tickets sometimes allow mileage transfers
When it comes to transferring miles, some airlines are more flexible when it comes to business or first class tickets. For example, if you’re flying in a premium cabin, airlines like Singapore Airlines and Cathay Pacific may allow you to transfer your miles to another person.
This can be particularly helpful if you have excess miles and want to share the luxury of a premium cabin experience with a friend or family member.
Just keep in mind that these policies can change, so it’s always a good idea to check with the airline before making any plans.
– Credit card points can sometimes transfer to airline miles
In addition to airline programs, many credit card loyalty programs allow you to transfer your points to airline miles. This can be a great way to top up your miles balance or transfer them to someone else.
For example, Chase Ultimate Rewards and American Express Membership Rewards both offer the ability to transfer points to several airline partners.
This can be a valuable option if you’re looking to book a flight for someone else using your credit card points.
It’s important to note that transferring points or miles may come with certain restrictions, such as minimum transfer amounts or fees. Always check the terms and conditions of the specific program or credit card to understand the details.
Booking Flights for Others
Have you ever wondered if you can earn miles for someone else’s flight? The answer is yes! Many airlines offer programs that allow you to earn miles when booking flights for your friends, family, or even colleagues.
Not only can you earn miles for their flights, but you can also use your miles to book award tickets for them or redeem vouchers like gift cards or certificates.
– Booking companion tickets earns you miles
When you book a flight for someone else, some airlines consider it as a companion ticket. This means that not only does the person you’re booking for get to enjoy the flight, but you also earn miles for their journey. It’s a win-win situation!
You can accumulate more miles in your account while helping someone else reach their destination.
Make sure to check with your airline if they have any specific requirements or restrictions when it comes to earning miles for companion tickets.
– Using your miles to book award tickets for others
Another fantastic benefit of earning miles for someone else’s flight is that you can use your accumulated miles to book award tickets for them. This is a great way to surprise your loved ones with a free or discounted flight.
Imagine the joy on their faces when you tell them that their next vacation is on you!
Just make sure to check the airline’s rules and regulations regarding using miles for others, as some may have restrictions or fees.
– Redeeming vouchers like gift cards or certificates
In addition to earning miles and using them for award tickets, some airlines offer vouchers or gift cards that can be redeemed for flights. These vouchers can be a fantastic gift for someone special in your life.
Whether it’s for a birthday, anniversary, or just to show your appreciation, giving the gift of travel is always a great idea. Check with your preferred airline to see if they offer such vouchers and how you can redeem them for flights.
Booking flights for others not only allows you to earn miles but also gives you the opportunity to make someone’s travel experience more enjoyable.
Whether it’s earning miles for companion tickets, using your miles to book award tickets for others, or redeeming vouchers, the possibilities are endless.
So, the next time you’re planning a trip for someone else, don’t forget to take advantage of these amazing benefits!
Conclusion
While most airlines don’t allow directly earning miles from flights taken by others, there are still ways to rack up miles for non-ticketed travel.
From booking flights and transferring points, to mileage runs and status matches, the opportunities are out there.
Just be sure to read the fine print, as policies vary across airlines and loyalty programs.
