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Many people who are points enthusiasts are unaware of Avianca and how to utilize its program to secure business and first class flights at more advantageous redemption values than other programs. It’s one of my favorite transfer partners. I’ve made great use of the program via transfer, but also via the periodic point sales that they conduct. I would note, Avianca LifeMiles can be a little tricky to book, and their IT is notoriously clunky. With that said…it’s worth the hassle to secure some really great deals. Lifemiles is a transfer partner of Citi, Cap1 and Amex. Many of these cards are on our top credit card picks Citi Transfer Partners Capital One Transfer Partners American Express Transfer Partners The best deal was in September of 2020 when Avianca offered miles with a whopping 200% bonus. If you want to buy more than 50k, you need to enter “Other” quantity.
Here’s Avianca’s award chart from North America. Some great redemption values: Here’s what things typically look like North America to Europe: Business Class: 63k First Class: 87k North America to North Asia: Business Class: 75k First Class: 90k Europe to South America in First Class 105k to fly from Europe to South America.
Avianca is in bankruptcy. This is true, and should be heavily considered. However, as the past has shown, airline loyalty programs typically continue on regardless of the solvency of its associated airline. Avianca did secure a loan to stay in operations although, last I checked, it hadn’t been approved by the courts, so I would again…keep this in mind, but these programs can be sold off and leveraged. Personally, and mind you I don’t make any money off of the sale of these miles, I don’t think you have a ton to worry about in terms of the miles being zeroed out completely. Worst case, the program could be spun off like Aeroplan to generate cash, or a bank could even purchase the program, etc. With that said…always heed caution.
Should you buy Miles? This is totally up to you. I don’t know your travel plans, what will happen with restrictions, etc. These are things you should heavily consider, but what I can say is this is a very good price for LifeMiles. You can go here to Buy.
Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, endorsed or approved by any of these entities. Related.