American Airlines offered the first-ever Frequent Flyer Miles program in May 1981. Since that time, dozens of airlines have followed suit, and Frequent Flyer Mile programs have expanded to include other items besides airfare.
Identification
Frequent Flyer Miles are free travel miles earned by traveling with the same airline repeatedly. The more you fly with the airline, the more you miles earn, and you have the potential to earn a free trip when you accumulate enough miles.
Features
For each airline, the number of miles you earn is based upon certain factors, such as the length of your trip, the class of ticket your purchase and the time of year that you fly.
Types
Most major airlines in the United States, Canada and Europe have their own Frequent Flyer Mile programs. Some programs also allow you to accumulate miles by using a credit card with the airline's logo, by staying at certain brandname hotels or shopping at specific national chain retailers.
Benefits
For airlines, Frequent Flyer Miles inspire traveler loyalty and provide repeat business from customers who fly often for recreation or business. For you, Frequent Flyer miles allow you to earn free airfare simply by traveling on flights that you planned to take anyway for work or pleasure.
Considerations
The miles earned in many Frequent Flyer Miles programs have expiration dates and must be used before this specified time or they are lost. Exercise caution when signing up for credit cards to earn bonus miles as often these cards charge high interest rates.
About The Author
Hayley Harrison has writing experience since 1996 with over 3,500 articles appearing on Answerbag, eHow Trails and Suite 101. Harrison also holds an LAH insurance license in the state of Pennsylvania and has experience as a bank branch manager and lending officer. Harrison holds a Cum Laude Bachelor of Arts in art history from the University of Pittsburgh.
