Finnair, the Finnish flag carrier and member of the Oneworld alliance, has announced that it will be adopting Avios as its loyalty currency in 2024, replacing its existing Finnair Plus points system. Avios is the same loyalty currency used by British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus, Vueling, and Qatar Airways. The switch is expected to happen in late January 2024.
Under the new system, Finnair Plus award points will be converted to Avios at a 3:2 ratio. This means that a current Finnair Plus points haul of 120,000 would be worth 80,000 Avios. The value of current Finnair Plus points will not change. Avios can also be transferred to any other Avios program at a rate of 1:1.
In addition to the change in loyalty currency, Finnair is also shifting its loyalty program to a revenue-based earning platform. This means that Avios and elite status will be awarded based on the amount spent rather than the distance flown. This is similar to changes made by British Airways Executive Club and Iberia Plus.
Finnair will start awarding tier points and Avios based on spending for new bookings made after the switch to Avios in late January 2024, as well as bookings made before the changeover but flown from February 1, 2025. The rates for tier points and Avios earned on Finnair-operated flights will vary depending on the ticket type and the region of travel.
While the change to a revenue-based earning platform may not be welcomed by all Finnair frequent flyers, the adoption of Avios as the loyalty currency is expected to open up better redemption opportunities across partner airlines. Avios is a valuable currency that can be easily used and transferred to other Avios programs.
Other changes to the Finnair Plus program include an increase in the number of award seats available on flights, guaranteed at least four award seats on flights within Europe and at least eight award seats on long-haul flights. Finnair Plus members will also be eligible to receive extra rewards, such as upgrade benefits, upon reaching specific point limits, depending on their elite status. Complimentary internet access for messaging will be available on short-haul European flights operated by Finnair’s narrow-body Airbus fleet.
In 2024, Finnair will also open a new lounge at Helsinki Airport with a dedicated space for top-tier members. The current lounge will remain in operation until the new lounge opens.
Overall, the adoption of Avios by Finnair is expected to bring more benefits and improved options for Finnair Plus members to use their earned points within Finnair and the partner network of IAG Loyalty. The Finnair Plus loyalty program currently has over 4 million members worldwide.