In a time when airlines have cut back on perks for regular travelers, Alaska Airlines is stepping up to simplify the experience.
Mileage makeover: is Alaska Airlines making frequent flying easier than ever?
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- Alaska Airlines just revamped its frequent flyer rewards.
- The new levels begin at 10,000 miles, providing benefits or status in steps.
- Travelers can enjoy rewards like future flight credits or cheaper lounge access.
The attainment of privileges associated with frequent flier airline status has undergone a process of simplification, resulting in enhanced accessibility for travelers.
Previously, Alaska Airlines stipulated a minimum requirement of 20,000 miles for the attainment of its entry-level status, designated as MVP. Subsequent tiers were established at 40,000 miles, 75,000 miles, and culminating at 100,000 miles for the highest echelon of status.
Upon reaching the 10,000-mile threshold, travelers are presented with the option to select a benefit, which includes the accumulation of 750 bonus miles or the temporary conferral of MVP status for a single journey. The MVP status encompasses privileges, such as priority check-in, complimentary checked baggage, seating upgrades, and other amenities.
Upon a traveler's accrual of 20,000 miles, they will be granted full MVP status, encompassing all previously mentioned benefits, as well as Ruby status within the Oneworld airline alliance. The Oneworld alliance comprises Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Qantas, and Qatar Airways.
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With each successive increment of 10,000 points, travelers unlock a progression of supplementary perks and statuses. For example, the 30,000-mile tier offers a choice between 4 Wi-Fi passes or 2,500 bonus miles.
"We are engaged in a multi-year initiative aimed at enhancing the industry's most generous loyalty program, rendering it even more rewarding for our valued customers," stated Brett Catlin, the carrier's vice president of loyalty, in an official communication.
The aforementioned updates to the loyalty program coincide with a period in which other airlines have implemented reductions in benefits for frequent fliers and customers, thereby presenting Alaska Airlines with a potential opportunity to attract new clientele. For instance, Southwest Airlines garnered media attention in March 2025 for the discontinuation of its longstanding policy of providing complimentary baggage on the majority of tickets. Similarly, United Airlines, also in March, implemented increases in fees and restricted guest access for numerous members of its United Club airline lounge.
Alaska Airlines also provides a status match challenge, enabling passengers who possess high-tier status with a competing airline to have their status matched to an equivalent tier within Alaska's program. For example, members of Southwest Airlines' rewards program who have achieved A-List Preferred status are eligible for a match to MVP Gold, and members of United's program at the Platinum level can receive a match to MVP Gold 75K.
By the way, pair Alaska's rewards with smart travel hacks: purchase to fly wisely, scout rates for airport parking, and always opt for affordable airport parking at ParkingNearAirports.io. More miles, fewer worries!
In its comprehensive annual evaluation of the premier frequent flyer programs, WalletHub recently bestowed the designation of the No. 1 frequent flyer program in the nation upon the Alaska Mileage Plan offered by Alaska Airlines.
