Alaska Airlines Enhances Mileage Plan Benefits: Qualify for Elite Status with Award Ticket Usage

Alaska Airlines is enhancing the benefits of its mileage plan.

Based on the number of Elite Qualifying Miles (EQM) earned, members can receive milestone rewards. By reaching a minimum of 10,000 EQMs, members can choose from rewards such as bonus miles, lounge access, exclusive events, and unique experiences.

Members can now earn EQMs through flights booked with award tickets and credit card usage. For instance, using an award ticket on the Seattle to Tokyo/Narita route can earn a round-trip total of 9,538 EQMs. Additionally, credit card spending grants 1 EQM for every 3 US dollars spent, up to a maximum of 30,000 EQMs. Every 3,000 miles earned with partners like the rideshare service Lyft also contribute 1,000 EQMs.

Furthermore, Alaska Airlines is simplifying the process for earning miles and redeeming award tickets with its 30 partner airlines. Passengers will always earn 100% of the flight miles, with 150% for Premium Economy, 250% for Business Class, and 350% for First Class. The option to combine miles from different airlines for award ticket redemption will start this winter, initially with transatlantic routes and expanding to other regions and partners next year.

Upgrade waitlist prioritization will be determined by a member’s recent and long-term usage, with Million Milers receiving higher priority. Priority will be determined by EQMs rather than purchase amount.

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