are booking shorter flights, as the redemption rates are lower for flights under a certain distance. This means that if you frequently take short-haul flights within the Americas, you may see some savings with the new award chart. For example, flights less than 700 miles in economy will start at 4,500 miles, compared to the current 5,000 miles.
However, the new award chart also brings some increases in redemption rates, especially for longer flights. Economy flights within the Americas covering 1,401 to 2,100 miles will increase from 10,000 miles to 12,500 miles, a 25% increase. This may not be good news for those who frequently take longer flights within the Americas.
When it comes to international flights, there are some notable changes as well. For example, flights from the U.S. to Fiji in business class currently start at 55,000 miles, but under the new award chart, they will start at 75,000 miles. On the other hand, nonstop economy tickets from the U.S. to Fiji will see a slight drop to 37,500 miles.
Flights from the U.S. to Asia on Japan Airlines will see a mix of changes. Certain flights to Tokyo will remain the same or lower, but flights from other U.S. gateways to Tokyo will see increases in redemption rates. For example, economy flights will increase to 37,500 miles.
Cathay Pacific, another popular redemption option, will also see increases in award rates. Economy flights from the U.S. to Hong Kong will increase to 42,500 miles, business class to 85,000 miles, and first class to 130,000 miles.
Overall, the new award chart has its pros and cons. It may offer savings for short-haul flights within the Americas, but it also brings increases in redemption rates for longer flights and certain international routes. It’s important for loyal Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan members to carefully consider how these changes will impact their future travel plans and redemption strategies.
In addition to the new award chart, Alaska Airlines is also introducing some updates to the Mileage Plan program. These include increased partner award inventory, new partner award sales, and upcoming flexibility with partners. However, details on these updates are limited, so it remains to be seen how beneficial they will be for members.
One thing that is not changing is Alaska Airlines’ generous stopover policy. Members will still be able to add a stop of up to 14 days on one-way, international award tickets.
In conclusion, the new award chart introduced by Alaska Airlines brings a mix of changes for Mileage Plan members. While there may be some savings for short-haul flights within the Americas, longer flights and certain international routes will see increases in redemption rates. It’s important for members to carefully consider these changes and assess how they will impact their future travel plans and redemption strategies.