**What is a mileage run?**
A mileage run refers to the act of flying solely to gather airline miles or attain airline elite status. This may be a yearlong pursuit or a journey at the year’s end to ensure qualification for elite status. Typically, these trips are brief, and often travelers may fly to a location without actually departing the airport. Many find airline frequent flyer programs to be quite addictive, as they seek to maximize rewards from both flying and credit card expenditures. Mileage runs serve as a continuation of that.
**What are the various types of mileage runs?**
1. **Mileage runs for airline elite status:** These runs are driven by the benefits of elite status, including free upgrades, bonus miles, and lounge privileges. Some individuals might embark on several mileage runs to achieve a specific elite tier.
2. **Mileage runs for earning airline miles:** These runs focus on accumulating redeemable airline miles, which can be utilized for flights, often delivering substantial value for first and business class seats. However, this has become less profitable due to modifications in frequent flyer programs.
3. **Hybrid mileage run holidays:** This combines a mileage run with a holiday. The journey can be valuable for the elite status and miles accrued, and it can also include a visit to a long-desired location.
**The economics of mileage runs have evolved**
The financial dynamics of mileage running have transformed considerably due to alterations in frequent flyer programs:
– Airlines formerly allocated miles based on distance traveled, but now it’s determined by spending.
– Revenue requirements for elite status complicate qualification with low-cost tickets.
– Elite status benefits have diminished, rendering them less appealing.
– Miles have decreased in value, necessitating more for first and business class tickets.
**Are mileage runs still valuable?**
Mileage runs are generally only beneficial at the fringes:
– Airlines sometimes sell redeemable miles at appealing prices.
– If nearing elite status, a trip or two may be worthwhile, but starting anew is constrained by revenue prerequisites.
Currently, credit card expenditures have become a more effective variant of mileage running, as many programs permit status accrual through credit cards. However, it’s crucial to be strategic and evaluate the value of the perks obtained.
**In conclusion**
Mileage running was once a favored activity, but the financial landscape has shifted. Airlines have depreciated elite benefits and mileage redemptions, and miles are often available for direct purchase. While it may still make sense at the margins, the most prevalent mileage run today is through credit card usage.