Neither Delta nor American Airlines: this is the airline with the best mileage program in the U.S. to save on your travels
Here are the best airlines to choose when it comes to getting solid benefits from racking up air miles.
In 2025, frequent flyer programs are stepping up their game, offering fresh perks and smarter ways to earn and burn miles.
According to AwardFares’ latest update, these programs in particular are leading the pack.
The answer to ‘which is the best?’ isn’t Delta, nor American, nor United, it’s pretty much all of them. As competition grows, the ways to tempt customers (you) into flying with them become more and more appealing.
AAdvantage (American Airlines)
In 2025, American Airlines’ AAdvantage program continues to be a top choice for both frequent and occasional travellers, thanks to its strong global reach and impressive network of partner airlines like British Airways, Qatar Airways, and Japan Airlines.
The biggest thing they’ve done this year is introduce lifetime elite status for members who hit long-term milestones.
Redemption options are broader, too—you can now use miles for in-flight meals, lounge access, and more. Requirements to reach elite status have been simplified, and a new exclusive partnership with Citibank brings updated co-branded credit cards and added perks.
Flying Blue (Air France-KLM)
Flying Blue keeps things interesting with monthly “Promo Rewards,” regular offerings of discounted mileage rates—not just in economy, but premium cabins too. The program benefits from its strong SkyTeam alliance, granting access to airlines like Delta, Korean Air, and now SAS.
Beyond flights, you can redeem miles for upgrades, hotel stays, and even car rentals.
In 2025, Flying Blue introduced a new “Miles Subscription” model that lets members pay a monthly fee to receive a steady stream of miles, helping you reach redemptions faster. Earning has also been made easier thanks to strong ties with retail partners and co-branded credit cards that reward everyday spending.
Aeroplan (Air Canada)
Aeroplan has become one of the most flexible programs around. You can use points for flights across Star Alliance partners, hotels, and experiences.
They’ve improved reward seat availability and made it easier to earn points through online shopping and new credit card partnerships.
One of the standout perks is the 2-for-1 companion voucher from Amex, which allows members in Norway and Sweden to fly in premium cabins—like Delta One Suites or business class on Air France and KLM—for half the usual points.
MileagePlus (United Airlines)
With access to top-tier partner airlines like Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines, and ANA, MileagePlus from United is ideal for international flyers aiming for Europe, Asia, or South America.
MileagePlus is particularly attractive when booking award flights on partner airlines, often offering better value than using miles on United’s own flights.
For 2025, the program has expanded its popular PlusPoints system with new redemption options like TravelBank credits, extra miles, or even gifting elite status.
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United is also rolling out Elon’s high-speed Starlink internet for MileagePlus members.
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