Lufthansa’s frequent flyer program, Miles & More, is undergoing a major revamp, and flyers are bracing for the impact. Here’s a breakdown of the key changes and how they might affect you:
Shifting Gears: From Miles to Points
The most significant change involves how you earn points towards elite status. Miles & More is ditching the distance-based system and moving to a points-based system. This means the number of points you rack up won’t solely depend on how far you fly, but also on the cabin class you choose. Flying business class on a long-haul route will naturally earn you more points than flying economy on a short hop. Additionally, the program differentiates between continental and intercontinental flights, potentially impacting flyers who primarily travel within Europe.
The One-Year Status Squeeze
Another major change involves the validity of elite status. Previously, elite status in Miles & More lasted for two years. However, under the new regime, it will only be valid for one year. This means you’ll need to accumulate enough points throughout the year to requalify for the next year. This could be a blow to frequent flyers who might not travel as consistently or who primarily take shorter trips.
A Beacon of Hope: Enter Lifetime Status
To counter the sting of the one-year validity, Lufthansa is introducing a coveted lifetime status tier. This exclusive club is for high-mileage flyers who reach a specific points threshold over their lifetime. While the exact point requirement remains undisclosed, achieving lifetime status will provide long-term peace of mind, exempting you from the annual requalification scramble.
The Earning Game: Cabin Class and Flight Type
Here’s a deeper dive into how you’ll earn points under the new system. Qualifying points will be awarded based on the cabin class you fly (economy, business, or first) and the type of flight (continental or intercontinental). Only points earned on Lufthansa Group airlines or airlines partnered with Miles & More will contribute to your status. Keep in mind, continental flights are defined as those within the same continent, including North Africa as part of Europe. For frequent economy fliers aiming for the highest HON Circle status, there’s a catch: economy travel won’t contribute towards reaching that top tier.
The Verdict: A Cause for Celebration or Concern?
The changes to Miles & More are a double-edged sword. The program becomes easier to understand with the points system, and the introduction of lifetime status is a welcome addition for dedicated travelers. However, the one-year status validity and exclusion of some flights from status qualification might disgruntle some frequent flyers, particularly those who primarily fly economy or shorter routes.
Ultimately, how these changes impact you will depend on your individual travel habits and aspirations. Frequent business class flyers on long-haul routes might find the new system more rewarding. On the other hand, casual travelers or those who primarily fly economy within Europe might find it more challenging to maintain elite status.
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