Alaska Airlines (AS) is set to redefine loyalty programs with an upgraded Mileage Plan launching in January 2025. Known as one of the industry’s most generous rewards systems, the enhanced Mileage Plan introduces new ways to earn and redeem miles, faster paths to elite status, and personalized perks to cater to a wider audience of travelers.
The changes come alongside Alaska Airlines’ merger with Hawaiian Airlines (HA), finalizing in September 2024. This strategic partnership promises expanded benefits for customers of both airlines, including seamless loyalty integrations and mutual perks.
Key Highlights of the 2025 Mileage Plan Overhaul
1. Milestone-Based Rewards
The 2025 Mileage Plan introduces a milestone-based reward system, offering perks at various elite-qualifying mile (EQM) thresholds starting at just 10,000 EQMs.
- Milestone Perks Include:
- Bonus miles.
- Lounge access.
- Temporary status upgrades.
- EQM rollovers.
- Access to exclusive events and experiences.
Additional Milestones:
Rewards are unlocked at 30,000, 55,000, 85,000, 150,000, 200,000, and 250,000 EQMs, complementing existing elite tiers such as MVP, MVP Gold, MVP Gold 75K, and MVP Gold 100K.
2. New Ways to Earn EQMs
Alaska Airlines is expanding opportunities to accumulate EQMs, ensuring members can achieve elite status more quickly:
- Award Travel:
Beginning January 2025, members will earn EQMs for award travel on Alaska Airlines and its partners, based on distance flown. For example, a round trip from Seattle to Tokyo-Narita (9,538 miles) will earn 9,538 EQMs toward elite status. - Alaska Airlines Visa® Card:
Cardholders will earn 1 EQM per $3 spent on qualified purchases, with a maximum of 30,000 EQMs annually. - Non-Airline Partnerships:
Members can earn 1,000 EQMs for every 3,000 miles accrued through eligible everyday travel partners, such as Lyft. - EQM Rollovers:
A new milestone at 85,000 EQMs allows members to roll over 10,000 EQMs to the following year, providing a head start on maintaining elite status.
3. Expanded Global Partner Network
Alaska Airlines now has 30 domestic and international partners, including oneworld Alliance members, offering access to over 1,200 destinations worldwide.
- Mileage Earning Simplified:
Members booking flights via alaskaair.com with 23 direct partners will earn 100% of flown miles, with premium cabin tickets earning even higher bonuses:- 150% for Premium Economy
- 250% for Business Class
- 350% for International First Class
- Multi-Carrier Redemptions:
Starting winter 2025, members can combine flights from multiple partners for a single trip, initially focusing on U.S.-Europe routes with plans to expand further.
4. Exclusive Perks and Upgrades
- “Extras” Program:
Members will soon redeem miles for exclusive experiences and events. - Global Getaways:
Seasonal discounts on international award redemptions will continue, with members already saving nearly 50 million miles through promotions launched in April 2024. - Enhanced Upgrade System:
- Million Milers: Top priority for upgrades within their tier.
- Companion Upgrades: MVP members’ travel companions on the same reservation are now eligible for complimentary, space-available upgrades.
- Certificate Alerts: Members holding upgrade certificates will receive notifications when confirmable upgrade spaces open.
Benefits of the Alaska-Hawaiian Airlines Merger
The merger between Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines enhances the Mileage Plan’s value and accessibility:
- Mile Transfers:
Members can transfer miles between loyalty accounts at a 1:1 ratio with no fees. - Integrated Booking:
Flights from both airlines are available on either website. - Exclusive Travel Program for Hawaii Residents:
Launching in November 2024, this program offers discounted fares and additional benefits for Hawaiian residents.
What This Means for Alaska Airlines Travelers
The Mileage Plan’s 2025 enhancements are designed to make elite status more attainable while offering a wide range of personalized rewards. Key takeaways for travelers include:
- Increased Earning Opportunities: Earn EQMs not just through flights but also through award travel, credit card spending, and partner activities.
- Expanded Redemption Options: Global partnerships and multi-carrier redemptions open up new travel possibilities.
- Tailored Rewards: The milestone-based system ensures benefits are accessible to more members, even without elite status.
Alaska Airlines’ revamped Mileage Plan for 2025 sets a new standard for loyalty programs by offering innovative ways to earn rewards and achieve elite status. Coupled with the benefits of the Alaska-Hawaiian Airlines merger, the program promises to provide unmatched value to its members, whether they’re frequent flyers or occasional travelers.
With personalized perks, expanded global partnerships, and a commitment to rewarding loyalty, Alaska Airlines continues to lead the industry in customer satisfaction and engagement.
