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 Canadians announced today that they extend the validity of the status for their elite members and more importantly for many Canadians – extend 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 MBNA Alaska Airlines World Elite® Mastercard® which provides an annual companion fare voucher where your companion can fly for $121 (USD) ($99 plus taxes and fees from $22) on Alaska Airlines. 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
Image via Alaska Airlines