Maximize Frequent Flyer Miles and Take Off

(ARA) - Do gasoline prices have you down? Pressure at the pump curtailing your travel plans? Don't fear -- help is on the way. With gas prices continuing to rise across the country, concerned travelers simply need to take a cue from the millions of savvy customers who have discovered airline mileage credit cards.

Airline mileage programs have been around for many years and allow users to earn frequent flyer miles for every dollar they charge. Recent estimates reveal that airline mileage credit card users charge six times more a year on these cards than on traditional credit cards. The mileage cards have become so popular that they have produced an entire class of mileage "junkies" who can enjoy "double dipping" by earning miles for the flight and for charging the dollar value of the flight on their credit cards.

"Our Mileage Plan frequent flyer program is a key part of our customer loyalty program," said Gregg Saretsky, Alaska Airlines executive vice president of marketing and planning. "Customers want to earn free travel, especially for family vacations and trips to exotic destinations. Our co-branded credit card, which allows customers to quickly qualify for more free tickets, has become an incredibly popular part of Alaska's mileage program."

And, it is not just individuals who are taking advantage of bonus miles. Increasingly, small-business owners are using the mileage credit cards to manage expenses and get travel rewards. For instance, some entrepreneurs use the cards for purchases of big-ticket items, such as computer systems or high-end office equipment, and are accumulating enough miles to fly free several times.

"Small-business owners want to earn miles and rewards just like they would on their personal cards," explained Kevin Vercauteren, senior manager, Small Business Card Services, Bank of America. "Our small-business cards give owners and entrepreneurs choices for managing travel expenses."

Working together, airlines and credit card issuers determine the details of the reward program, primarily the card's rate and fees, the mileage guidelines and the number of miles earned for each dollar charged on the card.

So savvy customers -- leave the car in the garage and hit the open skies this, powered by the miles you've earned using a co-branded airline mileage card.

Courtesy of ARA Content

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