Alaska Airlines' Atmos Rewards Program Offers Unprecedented Flexibility in Earning Points

Alaska Airlines has launched its new Atmos Rewards loyalty program, allowing customers to choose how they earn points: by distance traveled, price paid, or segments flown. This marks an industry first and offers more flexibility for travelers. Additionally, Alaska and Bank of America have introduced a premium credit card with an annual fee of $395. Free Starlink Wi-Fi will be available to Atmos Rewards customers starting next year.

Alaska Airlines has unveiled its new loyalty program, Atmos Rewards, which introduces a groundbreaking feature allowing customers to choose how they earn points based on their travel preferences. This marks a significant shift in the industry, providing travelers with more flexibility and control over their rewards.

The new program combines Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan and HawaiianMiles under the Atmos Rewards banner. It offers three distinct points-earning options: distance traveled, revenue-based, and flat earning per segment. Members can select their preferred method, with a change allowed once every 12 months. This choice reflects a shift in customer preferences, as revenue-based earning has become more popular over time [1].

Alaska Airlines has also announced a premium credit card in partnership with Bank of America. The card, with an annual fee of $395, offers free Starlink Wi-Fi to Atmos Rewards customers starting next year. This card is part of the airline's strategy to enhance the value of its loyalty program and attract more customers [1].

The new program also introduces new elite tiers, renaming them Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Titanium. Titanium members will receive complimentary upgrades into long-haul business class for themselves and a companion, a benefit unique to Alaska Airlines among U.S. carriers [1].

Free Starlink Wi-Fi for Atmos Rewards customers is set to be a significant differentiator, especially for corporate travelers. This feature can provide a competitive edge for Alaska Airlines in the business travel market [1].

Alaska Airlines has also expanded its long-haul routes, including new destinations like Tokyo, Seoul, Rome, London, and Reykjavik. The airline plans to operate up to 17 Boeing 787s from Seattle to 12 long-haul destinations within the next five years [1].

The Atmos Rewards program aims to differentiate itself by offering more choices and flexibility to customers. By providing a "real choice" in points-earning methods, Alaska Airlines hopes to attract and retain more customers, especially in the competitive airline industry [1].

References:
[1] https://viewfromthewing.com/free-worldwide-business-class-upgrades-plus-choose-how-you-like-to-earn-points-alaska-airlines-launches-atmos-rewards/