Air India’s Reimagined Flying Returns Loyalty Program: Airline Introduces Revenue-Based Earning Model

Loyalty reimagined by Air India. After hinting at a possible change to its frequent flyer program via social media on 31st March, Air India has revamped its Flying Returns loyalty program. Effective immediately, the program now adopts a spend-based earning system. This allows Air India passengers to earn points based on the amount spent on tickets rather than the distance flown. The initiative aims to offer greater value for money and reward those who choose premium cabins or longer layovers.

Air India has made changes to its Flying Returns program after more than a decade. Under the new earning system, members get 6 tier points and between 6 and 10 reward points for every $1.2 they spend, depending on the membership tier. Additionally, Flying Returns members get a 2 award point bonus for each $1.2 that they spend when they book directly through Air India’s website or app across all tiers.

Air India Simplifies Tier Benefits 

Air India’s reimagined loyalty program introduces simplified tier levels. These are renamed as Red, Silver, Gold, and Platinum, aligning with global industry standards. In order to qualify for each tier, Flying Return members need to meet specific points and flight count requirements. 

To qualify for the Red tier, Air India Flying Returns members should accumulate at least 15,000 points or complete 30 flights. Members can move up to the Silver tier by collecting 30,000 points or taking at least 60 flights within a specified period. By collecting 45,000 points or completing 90 flights, members can move up to Gold tier status. In order to move to the Platinum tier, members also need 45,000 points or take 90 flights. These tier requirements offer Air India’s frequent flyer program members with clear milestones. It will help them to acquire additional benefits and privileges. 

Enhanced Benefits for Air India’s Reimagined Flying Returns Members

Air India’s Flying Returns program now offers numerous enhanced benefits to its members. One of the top benefits is the inclusion of Evergreen Points, where Flying Returns Points will not expire as long as members take at least one Air India flight every 24 months. There are no blackout dates for redemption. This will allow members to use points for any available Air India seat without restrictions. 

Additionally, the Air India Reimagined Flying Returns program introduces Cash+Points Redemption. This will offer flexibility to pay for award flights using a combination of points and cash. With a global reach, members can earn and redeem points across 25 Star Alliance partner airlines, gaining access to over 1000 lounges worldwide. Furthermore, Silver, Gold, and Platinum members receive priority customer service assistance and lounge access as part of the Priority Services.

Introduction of New Features to Enhance Member Experience

Days after United Airlines launched a similar feature allowing members to pool miles with friends and family, Air India introduced family pooling as well. This allows members to combine points with family members for quicker redemption. 

Direct Booking Bonus has also been introduced that will let members earn additional bonus points for booking flights directly through Air India’s website or app. Moreover, the program also offers Expanded Point Collection. This enables members to earn points through various non-airline partners, including hotels, car rentals, and lifestyle experiences. These new features aim to offer members with more flexibility and opportunities to maximize their rewards.

Introduction of Business Class in Air India’s A350-900

Air India also offered glimpses of its business class cabin onboard Airbus A350-900 through a social media post on April 2. Hinting that it will be introduced soon, the airline mentioned it will include spacious flatbed seats and non-stop inflight entertainment. Air India business class on A350 will definitely redefine travel through this iconic aircraft. 

With addition of new aircraft in the Air India fleet, a reimagined Flying Returns program and other such passenger-friendly initiatives, Air India is truly entering a new era. As the airline continues to innovate and evolve its loyalty program, loyal customers can look forward to even more exciting benefits. Book your Air India itinerary from USA to India with Indian Eagle travel and get ready to be part of the change. 

What are your views on Air India’s Reimagined Flying Returns program? Do you think the airline will attract more loyal members? Comment below and let us know if you want to experience the new era of Air India.