Why do miles expire

Several airlines around the world are being more lenient on their policies and extending the validity of frequent flyer miles that were set to expire recently. Here are some of the most notable airlines extending the expiration date on miles.

If it completely slipped your mind and you forgot to keep your miles from expiring, you may still be in luck. Many airlines will offer you the chance to reinstate miles that have expired.

While some have a written policy, you may find the best method is to simply call the airline and make your request. You may simply have to pay a fee or you could sign up for a co-branded credit card in order to have your miles reinstated. It never hurts to try!

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Additionally, 24 months for those who hold an Avianca LifeMiles credit card. British Airways Executive Club: 36 months if account is inactive. Cathay Pacific Asia Miles: 18 months if earned on or after Jan. Otherwise, three years after they were earned. China Airlines Dynasty Flyer Program: 36 months from the date of flight.

China Southern Airlines: 36 months from being earned. No expiration for Silver and Gold members. Czech Airlines OK Plus: 36 months after they are earned. El Al Matmid: Three years after they are earned. Emirates Skywards: Three years after they are earned on the last day of your birthday month. Etihad Guest: 18 months if account is inactive. Finnair Plus: 18 months if account is inactive.

Garuda Indonesia GarudaMiles: 36 months from being earned. Iberia Airlines Iberia Plus: 36 months if account is inactive. Miles of Platinum members won't expire. Kenya Airways BlueBiz: Miles don't expire as long as you take a flight every 2 years. Mileage earned prior don't expire. Malaysia Airlines Enrich: Three years on the last day of the month after they are earned. Qantas Frequent Flyer: 18 months if account is inactive. Qatar Airways Privilege Club: Minimum of three years after they are earned.

Corporate and family accounts are governed by different expiration dates. Royal Jordanian Royal Club: 18 months if account is inactive. S7 Airlines Priority Programme: Miles are valid during the year they are earned, and the next two full calendar years.

Saudi Arabian Airlines Alfursan: Three years from the end of the calendar year in which they are earned. Shenzhen Airlines PhoenixMiles: 36 months on the last day of the month after they are earned. Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer: 36 months on the last day of the month after they are earned. South African Airways Voyager: Three years after they are earned. A "year" ends on March It often indicates a user profile. Log out. More Button Icon Circle with three vertical dots.

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But what happens if your points or miles have already expired? A handful of airlines and hotel chains allow you to reinstate your points and miles , typically with a fee. Try calling the airline or hotel program. While most airline and hotel programs differ in their expiration policies, your account balances in almost all programs will be at risk without some qualifying activity in a defined period.

Finally, remember: Saving your expiring miles could mean the difference between flying economy or business class on your next vacation! Terms Apply. Disclaimer: The responses below are not provided or commissioned by the bank advertiser. Responses have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the bank advertiser.

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