This Chart Compares the Hidden Fees of the Major Airline Reward Programs.
Travel rewards can be great. You fly frequently or use your credit card to accumulate points and you get a free flight. But these flights are rarely 100% free. They usually still include many airport taxes. This chart compares the fees of five popular airline incentive programs so you know where you’re going.
Creditcards.com notes that these reward programs have expanded in recent years and as a result, airlines have started charging fees for services that were previously included, such as checked baggage. Or fuel surcharges. They continue:
And if you’re looking to change or cancel your award ticket, be prepared to dig in your wallet – those fees can go as high as $ 200. “Reward tickets are not free,” says Jay Sorensen, president of the consulting firm IdeaWorks, which counts airlines among its customers. “Just because you are a frequent flyer doesn’t mean you’ll get everything for free. Airlines are for-profit organizations and they will try to charge you wherever possible because they need and want income. “
So they created a chart that compares the disadvantages, benefits, and conditions associated with American Airlines, Delta, Southwest, United, and jetBlue’s reward programs. Check out United’s analysis below, then visit the site to compare others.
How Much Will This “Free” Award Ticket Cost | CreditCards.com