The Thrifty Traveler Podcast · Thursday, October 1, 2026
Several major airline loyalty programs are being re-evaluated, with Aeroplan, Flying Blue, and Avianca Lifemiles showing a downward trend in value. Aeroplan has increased award rates for business class flights, while Flying Blue has seen significant award rate hikes and removed perks for booking Air France/KLM flights. Avianca Lifemiles, despite good redemption rates, is criticized for poor customer service and increasing award costs, making it a less attractive option for many travelers.
“Honestly, lately it's kind of down for me. Mostly just because they raised their award rates on business class flights.”
“Well, they didn't nuke their whole program, but they just raised their award rates. And for the lowest rates, they took away all of the... Nice perks that come with them. So I'm going to say down for right now.”
“I'm going to say down on life miles. It's just every time I've tried to use my life miles, something has come up and I've had to cancel. This has been like three times. And if any of y'all know anything about canceling with life miles, it's the biggest headache. So... I'm going to say down.”