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Alaska Airlines announced today that it is changing the way that status is earned next year (to qualify for 2025). Unlike most other US airlines that have shifted almost entirely to basing status on the amount spent on airline tickets, Alaska will make qualification solely based on elite qualify miles.
Only Qualifying Miles Count Toward Status
When earning status in 2024, segments no longer count. Members could qualify with 30, 60, 90, and 140, but no more. Mileage Plan™ MVP® status will only count based on elite qualifying miles (EQMs). The minimum number of Alaska-operated flights are also no longer required. The good news is that the number of EQMs is not increasing. Here is what is required to earn each level:
- MVP®: 20,000
- MVP® Gold: 40,000
- MVP® Gold 75K: 75,000
- MVP® Gold 100K: 100,000
Easier Ways to Earn in 2024
Status will be easier to earn in 2024 with the elimination of segments as well as:
- 4,000 EQMs for every $10,000 spent on Alaska Airlines credit cards (up to 20,000 EQMs)
- MVP® Gold 100K members will see any EQMs over 100,000 rolled over to count towards 2024 status
It’s Not All Good News
While it’s simpler to earn status, mile earnings at MVP®, MVP® Gold, and MVP® Gold 75K will all see decreases to the number of redeemable miles they earn in 2025. The first two levels see a 50% decrease and MVP® Gold 75K drops by 20%.
Anthony’s Take: Alaska has made it easier to earn status in 2024 with the ability to earn EQMs via credit card spend and rollover for top-tier elites. The carrier promises new choice awards to be announced next year. This seems like an overall positive announcement for Alaska loyalists. It’s nice that they have not jumped on the bandwagon to go revenue based.
(Image Credits: Alaska Airlines.)
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