Ordinary Gweilo

Asia Miles (Cathay Pacific’s frequently flier program)  are making changes to the number of miles needed to redeem flights.

Rather to my surprise, the change actually seems quite logical and, well – fair. They have increased the number of miles needed for some long-haul tickets, and cut the number of miles for short-haul. 

This makes sense, because under their current system Business Class & First Class Rewards on long-haul flights (including companion tickets and upgrades) offer the best value.  Over the last few years, the product has been improved, and prices have gone up, but the mileage has stayed the same. Presumably most people are aware of this, and the result is that these rewards are hard to book.

On the other hand, short-haul flights are generally getting cheaper – and Business Class on these flights is of a lower standard (with a lower price) than on long-haul.  It therefore makes sense that to cut the number of miles required.

The worst value, of course, is using your frequent flier miles for anything other than flights.  Don’t do it!