Explained: The best airline frequent flyer schemes in 2025
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Here are the programmes for plane perks you won’t want to miss as a frequent flyer. From 1 April 2025, Executive Club will be renamed The British Airways Club, with access to elite status now acquired by high spending for “tier points” with the airline.
![[The BA Executive Club will be renamed The British Airways Club in April]](https://static.independent.co.uk/2025/01/08/14/newFile-2.jpg)
Previously, tier points had been earned according to the number of miles flown rather than the amount of money a passenger had spent. As carriers move to win over regular customers with elite status, which airlines provide frequent flyers with the best perks, and how do their loyalty schemes work?.
![[Earn 40,000 Loyalty Points to reach AAdvantage Gold]](https://static.independent.co.uk/2025/01/08/15/iStock-2177402124.jpg)
Read more: Should budget airlines have loyalty schemes?. Frequent flyer programmes allow members to convert air travel into currency, usually in points or miles, and earn rewards. These points can normally be redeemed for different value discounts on future travel including airport lounge access, baggage and seat upgrades.
![[Spend $150,000 on Etihad flights for Emerald Etihad Guest status]](https://static.independent.co.uk/2025/01/08/16/iStock-870893994.jpg)
Enrolling for membership is free on most airlines with programmes so passengers can start collecting air miles when they spend on flights. In some cases, airline alliances – partnerships between carriers to share loyalty schemes – make it possible to claim travel perks across multiple airlines.
![[Fly with Turkish Airlines to earn Miles&Smiles towards award tickets]](https://static.independent.co.uk/2025/01/08/16/iStock-482879983.jpg)
The more miles travelled, the higher the determined membership “status” and rewards up for grabs per passenger. Avios points are the frequent-flyer currency used by British Airways and other members of the IAG conglomerate, as well as Finnair and Qatar Airways.
