Airline programs

Long-haul flights — without the long-haul price.

Airfare can be the priciest part of your plan - or a $0 starting point that delivers you to your destination rested and ready to explore. Here are the programs that can flatten your costs (and recline your seat!)

United MileagePlus (Star Alliance)

Massive partner award space and no fuel surcharges on most carriers.

Best for: Star Alliance redemptions to Asia, Africa, and Europe.

American AAdvantage (oneworld)

Web-bookable awards on AA, Qatar, JAL, British Airways and more.

Best for: Qatar Qsuite to the Middle East, India, or Africa.

Delta SkyMiles (SkyTeam)

Dynamic pricing — but huge transfer bonuses from many credit cards make it a competitive program.

Best for: Last-minute flights and Europe via Air France/KLM.

Air Canada Aeroplan

Best-in-class award chart with stopovers on Star Alliance.

Best for: Building a multi-country trip on a single award ticket.

Avios (BA / Iberia / Qatar / Aer Lingus)

Shared currency across four airlines with frequent transfer bonuses.

Best for: Short-haul Europe and one-stop transatlantic via Dublin or Madrid.

Virgin Atlantic Flying Club

Sweet-spot partner redemptions on ANA, Delta, and Air France.

Best for: Business class to Tokyo via ANA — one of the best uses of points anywhere.