So, you’ve heard about Alaska Airlines miles, right? Maybe you’re wondering if they’re really as good as people say. Well, you’re in the right place. This article is all about helping you get the most out of your Alaska Airlines miles. We’ll go over how to earn them, how to use them for cool trips, and even some smart ways to get more bang for your buck. If you want to travel smarter and maybe even fly in style without breaking the bank, stick around. We’re going to break down everything you need to know about the Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan.
Key Takeaways
- Alaska Airlines miles can be really good for booking flights, especially with their partner airlines.
- You can get a lot of value from your miles by using them for fancy seats on international flights.
- The free stopover rule with Alaska Airlines can help you see more places on one trip.
- It’s easier to earn Alaska Airlines miles now, thanks to recent program updates and new ways to get them.
- Compared to other airlines, Alaska Airlines miles often give you more for your points, even with less flying.
Understanding the Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan
The Genesis of Alaska’s Loyalty Program
So, Alaska Airlines, right? They started way back in 1932 as McGee Airways. Can you believe it? That’s around the same time as some of the other big airlines like United and American. At first, they were just flying around Anchorage, Alaska. Fast forward to 1983, and they launched their loyalty program, originally called Gold Coast. It’s pretty cool to see how far they’ve come from those early days to having hubs in a bunch of West Coast cities like Seattle, Portland, and Los Angeles. It’s a classic story of growth and adaptation in the airline industry.
Key Advantages of Alaska Airlines Miles
Okay, so what’s the big deal with Alaska Airlines miles? Well, for starters, they often give you more bang for your buck compared to other major US airlines. Think about it: you might not need to fly or spend as much to get good benefits. Plus, they’ve been rolling out some interesting updates for 2025, which could make things even better. One of the best parts is that you can use Alaska Mileage Plan miles to book flights with Oneworld partners like American Airlines and Cathay Pacific. They also have non-alliance partners such as Aer Lingus, Korean Air, and Singapore Airlines. Some options for maximizing your miles include short-haul flights with Alaska Airlines, business class flights to Europe, and flying Qatar Airways Qsuites to Doha.
Mileage Plan’s Unique Value Proposition
Alaska’s Mileage Plan is interesting. It’s not always the easiest to rack up miles, especially since they aren’t a transfer partner with the big credit card points programs. But here’s the thing: the miles you do get can be super valuable. They’ve got some sweet spots for partner redemptions, especially if you’re looking at business or first class. And their free stopover policy? That’s a game-changer if you plan your routes carefully. Plus, now that they’re part of Oneworld, you can earn miles on any Oneworld flight. It’s worth checking out the Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan program.
Even though it might seem harder to earn Alaska miles, the program often gives you more value than you’d expect. With the new updates for 2025, it’s definitely worth taking a closer look to see how you can make the most of it.
Earning Alaska Airlines Miles Effectively
Maximizing Mileage Accrual Strategies
Okay, so you want to rack up those Alaska Airlines miles, right? It’s not just about flying (though that’s a big part). Think of it as a game – how can you squeeze every last mile out of your everyday spending? One thing to keep in mind is that mileage earning varies by fare type. For example, if you book a discounted economy fare, you’ll likely earn 100% of the miles flown. However, if you opt for a Saver fare, you might only get 30%.
Here’s a few ideas:
- Always check for bonus offers: Alaska often has promotions where you can earn extra miles on specific routes or during certain time periods. Keep an eye on their website or sign up for email alerts.
- Consider fare class: Sometimes, paying a little extra for a higher fare class can significantly boost your mileage earnings. Do the math to see if it’s worth it.
- Fly with partners: Don’t limit yourself to just Alaska Airlines flights. Flying with their Oneworld partners or other partner airlines can also earn you miles. Make sure to credit those flights to your Alaska Mileage Plan account.
Earning miles isn’t just about flying. It’s about being strategic with your spending and travel choices. Look for every opportunity to maximize your accrual, and those award flights will be within reach before you know it.
Credit Card Partnerships for Miles
The Alaska Airlines Visa Signature card is your best friend. Seriously. It’s not just about the initial bonus (though those are nice, too). It’s about the everyday earning potential. Plus, cardholders of the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Credit Card and Alaska Airlines Visa Business Credit Card will now earn one EQM for every $3 spent on purchases. You can earn a maximum of 30,000 EQMs this way, even if you hold multiple Alaska cards.
Here’s the deal:
- Sign-up bonus: Keep an eye out for increased sign-up bonuses. These can give you a huge head start on your mileage balance.
- Earning categories: Pay attention to bonus categories. Some cards offer extra miles on dining, gas, or travel purchases. Use the right card for the right purchase.
- Annual fee: Weigh the annual fee against the benefits you’ll receive. If you fly Alaska regularly and take advantage of the card’s perks, it’s usually worth it.
Leveraging Oneworld Alliance Earnings
Joining the Oneworld alliance was a game-changer for Alaska Mileage Plan members. Now, you can earn miles on flights with a whole bunch of different airlines. This was a nice addition, considering that Mileage Plan miles are among the more challenging points currencies to accumulate. This is exacerbated by the fact that Alaska is not a transfer partner of any of the major transferable credit card points programs in the United States.
Here’s how to make the most of it:
- Know the earning rates: Earning rates vary depending on the airline, fare class, and distance flown. Check the Alaska Airlines website for the specific earning rates for each partner.
- Credit your flights: Always, always, always make sure to credit your Oneworld flights to your Alaska Mileage Plan account. Don’t accidentally credit them to another program.
- Consider status benefits: If you have elite status with Alaska, you’ll also enjoy benefits like priority boarding and lounge access when flying on Oneworld airlines. It’s a nice perk! You can earn Alaska Airlines miles by flying with Alaska, Oneworld members, or other partner airlines. Miles can also be accumulated through the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card and other methods.
Redeeming Alaska Airlines Miles for Maximum Value
Navigating the Mileage Plan Redemption Process
Okay, so you’ve got a pile of Alaska Airlines miles. Now what? The first step is understanding how to actually use them. It’s not always as straightforward as you might think. Start by heading to the Alaska Airlines website and logging into your Mileage Plan account. From there, you’ll want to use the "Use Miles" option when searching for flights. Make sure you’re flexible with your dates, because award availability can be tricky. Being flexible can seriously increase your chances of finding a good deal.
Unlocking Premium Cabin Awards
This is where Alaska miles really shine. While redeeming for economy flights on Alaska itself can be okay, the real value lies in those premium cabin awards with partner airlines. Think business class to Asia or first class to Europe. These redemptions can offer incredible value compared to paying cash. But, finding these awards takes some work. You’ll need to search well in advance and be prepared to jump on opportunities when they arise. Here’s a few things to keep in mind:
- Search Early: Premium cabin availability disappears fast.
- Be Flexible: Consider different dates and even different departure cities.
- Use Partner Search Tools: Sometimes partner websites show availability that Alaska’s site doesn’t.
Strategic Use of the Free Stopover Policy
Alaska Airlines offers a pretty awesome perk: a free stopover on one-way award tickets. This means you can essentially visit two destinations for the price of one. Let’s say you’re flying from New York to Tokyo. You could add a stopover in Seattle for a few days, exploring the city before continuing your journey. This is a fantastic way to maximize your miles and see more of the world. Just remember to factor in the extra time and any potential visa requirements. You can listen to a podcast episode for more Alaska Airlines miles guidance.
The stopover policy is a game-changer. It allows you to create complex itineraries and visit multiple cities without spending extra miles. It’s like getting a free mini-vacation tacked onto your main trip. Just be sure to plan carefully and consider the logistics of traveling to multiple destinations.
Sweet Spots for International Travel with Alaska Airlines Miles
Discovering High-Value Partner Redemptions
Okay, so you’ve got a stash of Alaska Airlines miles and you’re itching to use them for some serious international travel. The good news is that Alaska’s Mileage Plan is known for having some amazing partner airline redemptions. We’re talking about flying in style without completely draining your miles account. One of the best ways to maximize your miles is to look beyond Alaska Airlines’ own flights and explore what their partners have to offer.
Business and First Class Opportunities
Let’s be real, who doesn’t want to fly in business or first class? With Alaska miles, it’s actually within reach. The key is to target partner airlines that offer premium cabin awards at reasonable rates. For example, you might find incredible value on flights with airlines like Starlux. These airlines often release award seats that can be booked with Alaska miles, giving you a taste of luxury without the hefty price tag. Keep an eye out for these opportunities, as they can disappear quickly!
Geographic Regions Offering Exceptional Value
Some regions are just better than others when it comes to redeeming Alaska miles. For example, flights to Asia, particularly Southeast Asia, can be a fantastic use of your miles. You might find that you can book business class flights for fewer miles than you’d expect, especially if you’re flexible with your travel dates. South America is another region where you can often find good value, especially if you’re looking to experience a different culture without breaking the bank. Don’t forget to check out options for flights to Europe as well, as there are sometimes sweet spots available, especially with airlines like Condor. Remember to check the Starlux & Condor awards for the best deals.
It’s worth noting that award availability can change rapidly, so it’s a good idea to check frequently and be ready to book when you find a good deal. Also, consider using tools like Expert Flyer to help you search for award availability across multiple airlines. Planning ahead and being flexible with your dates and destinations can significantly increase your chances of finding those elusive sweet spots.
Here’s a quick rundown of some regions to keep an eye on:
- Southeast Asia (Thailand, Vietnam, etc.)
- South America (Colombia, Peru, etc.)
- Europe (Germany, France, etc.)
And remember, always compare the miles required with the cash price of the ticket to make sure you’re getting the best possible value for your Alaska miles. You can also consider a Talkeetna Heli-Hike for a different kind of adventure.
Optimizing Domestic Flights with Alaska Airlines Miles
Short-Haul Award Flight Savings
Okay, so you’re sitting on a pile of Alaska Airlines miles and itching to use them for a quick getaway? Smart move. One of the best ways to stretch those miles is by focusing on short-haul award flights. These are typically flights under 700 miles, and Alaska often offers some seriously sweet deals on them. Think quick hops between cities or even island-hopping in Hawaii.
- Look for flights under 700 miles.
- Check for off-peak travel times.
- Consider less popular routes.
I remember snagging a flight from Seattle to Portland for just a handful of miles. It was way cheaper than paying cash, and it felt like I was practically flying for free. It’s these little wins that make the Mileage Plan so rewarding.
Understanding Distance-Based Redemptions
Alaska Airlines uses a distance-based award chart, which means the number of miles you’ll need for a flight depends on how far you’re flying. This can be a bit tricky to wrap your head around at first, but once you get the hang of it, you can really maximize your redemptions. Basically, the shorter the flight, the fewer miles you’ll need. This is where those short-haul flights really shine. But even for longer flights, understanding the distance bands can help you find the best value. For example, flying just under a certain mileage threshold could save you a significant number of miles compared to flying just over it. You can book flightseeing tours with Alaska Airlines.
- Shorter flights = fewer miles.
- Check mileage thresholds for savings.
- Use Alaska’s award chart as a guide.
Maximizing Value on North American Routes
When it comes to using Alaska miles for flights within North America, there are a few things to keep in mind to get the most bang for your buck. First, consider flying to or from smaller airports. These routes often have less demand, which can translate to better award availability and lower mileage requirements. Also, keep an eye out for seasonal deals and promotions. Alaska frequently offers discounted award flights to popular destinations during off-peak times. And don’t forget about the free stopover on one-way awards – a fantastic way to see two destinations for the price of one. You can find domestic award flights on Alaska Airlines.
- Fly to/from smaller airports.
- Watch for seasonal deals.
- Utilize the free stopover policy.
| Route | Miles (One-Way) | Cash Price (Approx.) | Value per Mile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle to Boise | 5,000 | $150 | 3.0 cents |
| Anchorage to Fairbanks | 7,500 | $250 | 3.3 cents |
| Los Angeles to NYC | 12,500 | $400 | 3.2 cents |
I once used the stopover policy to spend a few days in Seattle on my way from Anchorage to Los Angeles. It was like getting a mini-vacation for free! Just remember to factor in the extra time and any additional expenses like accommodation and food.
Alaska Airlines Partner Network Benefits
Alaska Airlines’ Mileage Plan isn’t just about flying Alaska; it’s about unlocking a world of travel through its partner network. This is where things get really interesting, offering opportunities to see the world using your miles.
Exploring Oneworld Alliance Partners
Alaska Airlines joined the Oneworld alliance, which really changed the game. This means you can earn and redeem miles on any Oneworld flight. It’s a big deal because Alaska isn’t a transfer partner with major credit card programs, making miles a bit harder to come by. Being able to earn on any Oneworld flight helps a lot. You can now earn Mileage Plan miles on a wide variety of airlines.
Non-Alliance Partner Redemption Options
Beyond Oneworld, Alaska has partnerships with other airlines, too. These non-alliance partners can offer unique redemption opportunities that you won’t find elsewhere. It’s worth checking these out, as sometimes they have better award availability or fly to destinations not served by Oneworld airlines. Alaska publishes separate earning rate charts which varies depending on the airline and fare class. For redemptions, Alaska uses a unified award chart for all of its partners.
Booking Flights with Partner Airlines
Booking partner flights with Alaska miles can be super rewarding. The key is to use Alaska’s search tool, which has gotten way better over the years. It’s now much easier to find award space on partner airlines. Keep in mind that Alaska moved to a distance-based award chart for partners in March 2024. This changed some of the sweet spots, but there are still great deals to be found, especially in premium cabins. The merger between Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines has also made it easier to earn Alaska miles quickly.
It’s worth noting that while Alaska miles might be a bit harder to earn compared to other programs, the value you can get from them, especially on international flights in business or first class, can be pretty amazing. Plus, Alaska’s free stopover policy is a huge bonus if you plan your trips carefully.
Navigating Recent Mileage Plan Updates
Impact of Program Changes on Value
Okay, so things have been shifting a bit with the Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan. It’s not always easy to keep up, but understanding these changes is key to getting the most out of your miles. One of the biggest things to note is the move towards distance-based award charts. This means the number of miles you need for a flight now depends more on how far you’re flying, rather than just where you’re going. This can be good or bad, depending on the route. Some sweet spots have definitely disappeared, but there are still ways to find value.
New Opportunities for Elite Status
Alaska Airlines has been tweaking the ways you can achieve elite status. They’ve introduced new milestones and benefits, so it’s worth taking a look at the updated requirements. For example, they might have changed the number of elite qualifying miles (EQMs) you need, or added new ways to earn them. These changes can make it easier (or harder!) to reach the next tier. Keep an eye on promotions too, as they often offer bonus EQMs or other perks that can help you climb the ladder faster. The enhanced Mileage Plan now offers more ways to earn.
Adapting to Earning and Redemption Shifts
With any loyalty program, you’ve gotta be ready to adapt. The way you earn and redeem miles with Alaska Airlines might have changed recently, so it’s time to rethink your strategy. Maybe you need to focus on different credit card spending, or look for new partner airlines to maximize your earnings. On the redemption side, be flexible with your travel dates and destinations. Sometimes, shifting your plans slightly can save you a ton of miles. Don’t forget to check out the Mileage Plan Deals page for extra retail partners. Also, consider that the loyalty program has begun rolling out its new distance-based award charts. The new award charts are a complete overhaul of the previous redemption rates, which were based on destination and operating carrier. Unfortunately, some of the best sweet spots in all of points and miles have now been eliminated. This isn’t to say that award prices are increasing on everything. However, a lot of our favorite award redemptions are doing just that.
It’s a good idea to regularly check the Alaska Airlines website for the latest updates and announcements. They often have FAQs and other resources that can help you understand the changes and how they affect your travel plans. Staying informed is the best way to make sure you’re getting the most from your Mileage Plan account.
Advanced Strategies for Alaska Airlines Miles
Combining Miles for Complex Itineraries
So, you’ve got a bunch of Alaska Airlines miles, and you’re ready to travel. But what if your dream trip involves multiple destinations or airlines? That’s where combining miles comes in handy. The key is to strategically book separate award tickets that connect seamlessly.
- Start by identifying the major legs of your journey.
- Check award availability for each leg individually.
- Use Alaska’s partner airlines to fill in the gaps.
For example, you could use Alaska miles to fly to Asia on Japan Airlines, then use another airline’s miles to hop around Southeast Asia. It takes some planning, but it can open up a world of possibilities. Don’t forget to factor in potential layovers and connection times to avoid any travel mishaps.
Utilizing Miles for Non-Flight Redemptions
Okay, so maybe you’re not in the mood to fly. Did you know you can use your Alaska Airlines miles for other stuff? While it’s generally not the best value, it’s an option.
- Hotel stays
- Car rentals
- Magazine subscriptions
I wouldn’t recommend blowing all your miles on these things, but if you have a small amount left over after booking a flight, it could be a decent way to use them up. Just compare the cash price of whatever you’re getting to the mile value to make sure it’s worth it.
Expert Tips for Award Availability
Finding award availability can be a real pain, especially for popular routes and dates. But don’t give up! Here are some tips I’ve learned over the years:
- Book in advance: As soon as the booking window opens (usually 330 days before departure), start searching.
- Be flexible with dates: If your dates are flexible, you’ll have a much easier time finding availability. Try searching a few days before or after your ideal dates.
- Consider less popular routes: Sometimes, flying to a nearby airport and then taking a train or bus can open up more options.
Also, keep an eye out for last-minute availability. Airlines sometimes release unsold seats as award tickets closer to the departure date. Using transferable credit card points can also help you book last-minute trips. And remember, patience is key! Keep checking back regularly, as availability can change.
Comparing Alaska Airlines Miles to Competitors
Mileage Plan Versus Other Major US Airlines
Okay, so how does Alaska Airlines’ Mileage Plan stack up against the big guys like United, Delta, and American? Well, it’s a mixed bag. Alaska often wins on redemption value, especially for partner airlines. You might get more bang for your buck booking a fancy international flight through Alaska than directly with, say, United. But, earning miles can be a bit tougher since Alaska isn’t a transfer partner with major credit card programs. This means you’re mostly relying on flying or using their co-branded credit cards to rack up those miles. Other airlines have a broader range of earning options, making it easier to accumulate points even without flying. It’s a trade-off: potentially higher value versus easier accumulation. Alaska’s recent program updates for 2025 have made it easier than ever to pursue Alaska status earning EQMs.
Unique Strengths in the Loyalty Landscape
Alaska Airlines has a few things that make it stand out. First, their partner network is pretty awesome. They’re part of Oneworld, which gives you access to a ton of airlines, but they also have partnerships with airlines outside of the alliance. This gives you a lot of flexibility in terms of where you can fly using your miles. Plus, Alaska used to be known for its generous stopover policy, allowing you to visit multiple cities on a single award ticket. While some of those sweet spots have changed, there are still opportunities to maximize value, especially on international flights. The merger between Alaska and Hawaiian has also made it easier to earn Alaska miles quickly earn Alaska miles.
Why Alaska Miles Stand Out
So, why bother with Alaska miles? Well, if you’re strategic, you can get some serious value. Alaska miles are great for premium cabin redemptions on partner airlines. Think business or first class to Asia or Europe. Also, Alaska’s customer service is generally well-regarded, which is a nice bonus. However, it’s worth noting that Alaska miles have gone through some big devaluations big devaluations, as is the trend among just about every airline loyalty program. The perceived difficulty of earning Mileage Plan miles may discourage travelers from using this program Mileage Plan miles. If you’re willing to put in the effort to understand the program and plan your redemptions carefully, Alaska miles can be a valuable asset. Despite the upcoming changes to its loyalty program, travelers continue to sign up for Alaska Airlines’ existing cobranded Mileage Plan credit cards Mileage Plan credit cards.
Achieving Elite Status with Alaska Airlines
Understanding Elite Qualifying Miles (EQMs)
Okay, so you want to climb the ladder with Alaska Airlines? It all starts with understanding Elite Qualifying Miles, or EQMs. These are different from the redeemable miles you use for award flights. Think of EQMs as the points that count toward your status, while redeemable miles are like cash you spend on flights. Basically, the more you fly, the more EQMs you rack up. On most Alaska Airlines flights, you earn one EQM for every mile you fly. However, there are some exceptions, especially with partner airlines or cheaper fare classes. For flights shorter than 500 miles, you’ll get a minimum of 500 EQMs. And here’s a cool thing: starting in 2025, you even earn EQMs on award travel with Alaska or its partners! That’s pretty awesome, since most airlines don’t give you any credit for award flights. This change makes earning EQMs easier than ever.
Benefits of Mileage Plan Elite Tiers
So, what’s the point of chasing elite status? Well, the perks are pretty sweet. As you move up the tiers (MVP, MVP Gold, MVP Gold 75K, and MVP Gold 100K), you unlock more and more benefits. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Bonus Miles: Get extra miles on every flight, which can really add up over time.
- Free Checked Bags: Save money by checking your bags for free. MVP members get two free checked bags, while higher tiers get three.
- Preferred Seating: Snag those better seats without paying extra.
- Priority Boarding: Get on the plane early and settle in.
- Lounge Access: Relax in the Alaska Lounge before your flight (sometimes at a discount).
And that’s not all! Higher tiers also get perks like complimentary upgrades and even Oneworld first class lounges access when flying internationally. It’s definitely worth aiming for a higher status if you fly often. Plus, starting in 2025, Alaska introduced milestone rewards, so you get perks each time you cross an EQM threshold. For example, at 10K EQMs, you can choose between bonus miles, a free meal pre-order, or a complimentary Wi-Fi pass.
Pathways to Higher Status
Okay, so how do you actually get to those higher tiers? It’s all about flying and earning those EQMs. Here’s a general idea of the requirements:
| Status | EQMs Required |
|---|---|
| MVP | 20,000 |
| MVP Gold | 40,000 |
| MVP Gold 75K | 75,000 |
| MVP Gold 100K | 100,000 |
Keep in mind that these are just the EQM requirements. There might be other requirements too, like a minimum number of Alaska Airlines flights. Also, remember that you can earn EQMs not just on Alaska flights, but also on flights with their partner airlines. So, if you’re strategic about your bookings, you can reach elite status faster.
Earning elite status with Alaska Airlines can really improve your travel experience. From bonus miles to free checked bags and lounge access, the perks are definitely worth it if you fly with Alaska often. Plus, with the recent changes to the program, it’s now easier than ever to earn EQMs and unlock those valuable benefits.
Want to fly like a VIP with Alaska Airlines? It’s easier than you think to get special perks and upgrades. Our guide shows you all the best ways to earn elite status, from flying more to using their credit card. Don’t miss out on better seats, free bags, and early boarding. Check out our full guide to "Achieving Elite Status with Alaska Airlines" on our website and start your journey to top-tier travel today!
Wrapping It Up
So, there you have it. Alaska Airlines miles, even with all the changes lately, are still pretty great. You can get a lot out of them, especially if you’re looking to fly in a nicer seat on an international trip. And that free stopover thing? That’s a real game-changer if you plan it right. Plus, it’s gotten easier to earn status with them, which is cool. Basically, if you want to travel well without spending a ton, signing up for their Mileage Plan is a smart move. Start collecting those miles, and you’ll be flying in style before you know it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Alaska Airlines miles considered so good?
Alaska Airlines miles are super valuable because you can use them for lots of different flights, not just on Alaska but also with their many partner airlines all over the world. This means you can often find great deals, especially for fancy seats like business or first class.
How can I get more Alaska Airlines miles?
You can earn Alaska Airlines miles in a few ways. You can fly with Alaska Airlines or their partner airlines. Also, certain credit cards let you earn miles when you use them. Sometimes, there are special deals where you can earn extra miles too.
Can I use Alaska Airlines miles for flights outside the U.S.?
Yes, you can definitely use your Alaska Airlines miles for international flights! They have a bunch of partner airlines that fly all over the world. This is often where you get the most bang for your buck, especially for long trips or premium seats.
What’s a ‘sweet spot’ when using Alaska Airlines miles?
A ‘sweet spot’ is when you can get a really good deal using your miles. For Alaska Airlines, this often means booking business or first-class tickets on their partner airlines, or using them for flights that would normally cost a lot of money.
What is the Oneworld Alliance and how does it help with Alaska miles?
Alaska Airlines is part of the Oneworld Alliance, which is a big group of airlines that work together. This means you can earn and use your Alaska miles on airlines like American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, and many others, making it easier to travel to more places.
Can I make a stop in another city when booking with Alaska Airlines miles?
Yes, Alaska Airlines has a cool rule that lets you add a free stopover on your trip, even on award tickets. This means you can stop in a city for a few days before continuing to your final destination, all for the same number of miles. It’s like getting two trips for the price of one!
How do I get special status with Alaska Airlines?
Earning elite status means you get special perks like free upgrades, earlier boarding, and extra baggage. You earn it by flying a certain number of miles or segments with Alaska Airlines or their partners within a year.
Are Alaska Airlines miles easy to transfer from other loyalty programs?
While Alaska Airlines miles are great, they don’t work with the big credit card points programs like Chase Ultimate Rewards or American Express Membership Rewards. This means you usually have to earn them directly through flying or with Alaska’s own credit cards.
