FFP — Frequent Flyer Programme

FFP — Frequent Flyer Programme

Frequent flyer programmes are among the most commercially important products in aviation. They drive repeat purchase behaviour, provide airlines with valuable customer data and generate significant ancillary revenue through the sale of miles to partner companies.

Earning Structure

FFP miles are typically earned through: flight distance (often weighted by RBD and fare class), partner purchases — hotels, car rental, credit cards, retail, status miles — which count toward tier qualification, and bonus promotions.

Tier Structure

Most FFPs have multiple status tiers (e.g. Silver, Gold, Platinum). Higher tiers unlock benefits such as priority check-in, lounge access, bonus mile accrual, complimentary upgrades and guaranteed seat availability. Tier qualification is typically based on a qualifying miles or segment threshold within a calendar year.

Miles as a Currency

Airline miles have evolved into a significant currency. Airlines sell miles to credit card companies, hotels and retail partners at a premium. For many airlines, the miles business generates more profit than the core flying operation.

Alliance Reciprocity

Within airline alliances (Star Alliance, Oneworld, SkyTeam), FFP members earn and redeem miles on partner airlines. Reciprocal earn and burn arrangements are governed by bilateral agreements and communicated to GDS via SSR codes in the PNR.

Redemption Dynamics

Award seat availability — the number of seats accessible through mile redemption — is managed by the airline's revenue management team in the CRS. Airlines control the cost of redemption by adjusting how many award seats are available in each RBD.