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;using miles

If, after booking a flight using miles and later the miles required goes down on the exact flight, do you get credit for the difference?

When you book a flight using frequent flyer miles, the number of miles required is typically locked in at the time of booking. Most airlines do not automatically credit you the difference if the award cost drops later, even if it’s the exact same flight. However, some airlines have policies or exceptions that may allow you to adjust your booking or rebook to take advantage of lower mileage requirements.

Here are some points to consider:

  • Airline policies vary: Some airlines allow changes to award bookings with a reduced mileage cost, sometimes for a small fee. Others strictly lock in the original mileage and do not offer any retroactive credit.
  • Check your airline’s award change policy: If the airline permits rebooking, you may be able to cancel your original award ticket (possibly incurring a small redeposit fee) and rebook the same flight at the lower mileage rate.
  • Elite status or flexible award programs: Certain loyalty programs offer more flexibility for elite members, allowing adjustments or credits if the award cost decreases shortly after booking.

Tips to maximize value:

  • Monitor the flight after booking. If the mileage drops and the airline allows changes, you can cancel and rebook to save miles.
  • Contact the airline’s loyalty program directly to ask about exceptions or potential credits for reduced mileage requirements.
  • Plan award bookings strategically during known sales or promotions to reduce the likelihood of significant post-booking mileage changes.

In summary, you generally do not automatically receive credit if the mileage requirement decreases after booking. Your best option is to check the airline’s specific award change policy and consider rebooking if allowed. Policies differ widely among airlines, so it’s important to verify with your specific carrier.

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