More Fine Print on Alaska Airlines Promotion
I just subscribed to your newsletter because I take five to seven international trips a year in First Class, dropping down to Business on carriers that don’t offer a First Class cabin. I wanted to let you know that Alaska Airlines miles do expire if there is no activity in the account for a time. I know this because it happened to me. After much complaining I was able to get my miles back, however.
Karim Thomas Wataghani, Los Angeles, CA
Thank you for pointing this out. Mileage Plan miles do not have an expiration date, but if there’s no account activity— defined as mileage accrual or mileage redemption—then the airline may close the account, delete the mileage balance, and reassign the account number. Deleted miles can be reinstated for up to one year thereafter for $75. Next time think about redeeming a few miles for a magazine subscription or something else, simply to keep the account active. –MB
Should I Earn Miles on American or British Airways?
As of last year I started flying to Europe frequently, and up until now I have been building miles with BA. Would I be better off using American (or a different carrier) to earn elite status and upgrades? There does not seem to be any real benefit to getting to Silver or beyond with BA.
Guy Whistler, Davie, FL
The only reason I would switch to American is if you are going to be traveling a lot in the U.S. Otherwise stick with BA because its program is much better for international travel. Here’s why:
- BA only requires 25,000 miles roundtrip (half the miles that most other airlines charge) for an upgrade from premium economy to Business Class. This is great off-season when premium economy fares are low—I have seen them drop to $500 r/t (plus taxes and fees).
- BA also does not charge a co-pay for an upgrade, whereas American (and many other airlines) charge upgrade fees of $700-$1,200.
- BA is an Amex Rewards partner (AA is not), and Amex Rewards often offers mileage-transfer promotions that can yield up to 50% bonus miles.
- BA has better seats in Business and First Class than AA. More could be said, but that’s the high-level initial thought. –MB