Airline Loyalty Programs in 2025: Are They Still Worth It?

Airline loyalty programs are undergoing dramatic changes in 2025, with major carriers like British Airways, Delta, and Qantas shifting their focus to prioritize high-spending corporate travelers over frequent leisure flyers. These updates have sparked debates about whether loyalty programs still offer value to the average traveler.

 Key Changes in Airline Loyalty Programs

1. Shift to Spend-Based Models:

   - British Airways (BA) is transitioning from a distance-based system to a revenue-based model, awarding one point per pound spent. Achieving elite status, such as Gold, now requires spending £20,000 annually. This shift has drawn criticism for sidelining economy and leisure travelers.

   - Delta made similar moves in 2024, raising spending thresholds for its SkyMiles program but later eased requirements following backlash.

2. Added Complexity:

   - BA introduced new ways to earn points, such as purchasing sustainable aviation fuel credits or booking holiday packages. However, these options primarily benefit high spenders.

   - Qantas increased the points needed for rewards by up to 20%, further complicating redemption for average travelers.

3. Customer Backlash:

   - Frequent flyers have criticized these changes as unfair and exclusionary. BA faced significant pushback, prompting it to reinstate flight-based qualification alongside spend-based tiers for commuters and short-haul travelers.

Are Loyalty Programs Still Worthwhile?

For many travelers, the allure of loyalty programs has diminished. Airlines now reward spending over frequency, making it harder for budget-conscious flyers to achieve elite status or redeem points for meaningful rewards. Critics argue that these changes favor corporate clients while alienating loyal leisure travelers.

However, loyalty programs still hold value for high spenders or those who strategically leverage credit cards and partnerships. For example:

- BA offers bonus tier points for flights booked before December 31, 2025, with rewards varying by cabin class.

- American Airlines allows status attainment through a mix of flying and spending across partners.

While airline loyalty programs remain profitable for airlines, they are becoming less accessible for the average traveler. If you're a frequent flyer on a budget, consider exploring alternative programs or focusing on maximizing perks through credit card partnerships and promotions. For high spenders, these changes may still offer significant benefits—but at a costt.