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We are now getting news on a daily basis it seems from airline frequent flyer programs about extensions within their programs. Just in the last two days we’ve received news from Air Canada, Delta and United – now it’s Alaska Airlines turn!
This popular program for global miles and points enthusiasts announced today that they extend the validity of the status for their elite members and the validity of companion vouchers.
Here are the details from Alaska:
Will you be extending elite status?
Yes! Your current Mileage Plan status will be extended through December 31, 2021. That status will unlock even more benefits as we inch closer to our oneworld® launch in summer 2021.
What about companion certificates?
All companion certificates set to expire in 2020 will be extended. You’ll now have until December 31, 2020 to purchase new travel through November 26, 2021.
With the extension of my status through 2021, will all usual tier benefits apply?
All status benefits will apply, with the exception of the 50,000 bonus miles associated with earned 75K status. Look for more details in a few weeks with info on how 75K members can earn additional bonus miles for travel this year.
I don’t have elite status but was hoping to earn it this year. Will elite tier qualification requirements be adjusted for those trying to earn elite for the first time?
Tier qualification requirements are not being adjusted at this time, but look for more information over the coming weeks on ways you can earn additional elite-qualifying miles this year.
I signed up for a status match challenge, but due to business travel restrictions, wasn’t able to meet the challenge requirements. Am I out of luck?
Members who enrolled in a status match challenge between December 1, 2019 and March 31, 2020 will have their trial status extended through the end of 2021.
The key points are the elite status extension as I know a lot of our readers have Mileage Plan MVP status thanks to their generous status match offer but I also know many more of our readers have the annual companion fare voucher from Mileage Plan credit cards issued in the U.S. and Canada. Those vouchers are now extended to the end of 2020. To use simply book your travel with the voucher by December 31 for travel well into 2021. Also of note is that if you have signed up for the status match challenge in the last few months your trial status is being extended right to the end of 2021!!
Much like Air Canada however, Alaska isn’t reducing qualification requirements for those looking to achieve status but they do state that there will be opportunities to earn more elite qualifying miles in the future. I mean if you do find yourself on an Alaska flight between now and May 31 they will award you 50% bonus elite qualifying miles on those flights. You can register for that offer here.
Learn more about Alaska’s latest update here.
HT Travel Codex
