Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Frequent flier miles are offered by many major airlines. In 1981, American Airlines started the first frequent flier mile program. According to the Frequent Flier.com website (see Resources), more than 80 million people participate in a frequent flier program worldwide. If you fly often for business or pleasure, you may want to use a frequent flier program to earn points (sometimes called miles) for free airfare, upgrades to first class, free drinks on flights, and even free food at airports. Registering is not hard, but you have to make some decisions about which airline is best for you.
Figure out which airlines have several flights flying in and out of the closest airport to where you live. Does one of the airlines have a hub at the airport near your house? Also, check to see if this airline flies to several cities or where you normally need to go. Before you register for frequent flier miles, you will want to investigate the airline that can offer you the best service.
Use the Frequent Flier.com website (see Resources) to find links that explain each airline's program so you can compare any airlines that often fly in and out of your home airport or the airlines you will use the most for business trips.
Enroll in the frequent flier mile program that you feel fits you best. For example, if you decide to go with one of the oldest programs--American Airlines AAdvantage Miles, then you can call American Airlines or enroll online. (See Tips) You will need to give personal information to sign up, such as name, address, phone number, email address and a password. The Frequent Flier.com website has most major airlines' information on how to enroll in their particular program.
Order tickets or book hotels through the airline's website to start earning your frequent flier miles. If you book your airline tickets through a website, then you will need to make sure to provide your frequent flier number. If you do not provide your number, then you will not get credit for the miles on that particular trip. If you order your tickets over the phone, make sure to tell the agent that you are enrolled in the frequent flier program and that you want this trip to count on your miles.
Pay close attention to the rules and regulations with your frequent flier program. For example, with American Airlines, you will not lose any miles that you have earned as long as you book a trip within a 36-month period. Most frequent flier programs expect you to use the airline on a regular basis, but the length of time before miles expire will vary among airlines.