Category: Alaska Airlines

Atmos Rewards Award Chart: Alaska, Hawaiian, and Partner Redemption Rates

Alaska Airlines’ Atmos Rewards program uses distance-based award charts to price flights on Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, and its airline partners.

How many points you’ll need depends on where you’re flying, the distance of your itinerary, your cabin, and which airline operates your flight.

Below, you’ll find the Atmos Rewards award charts for Alaska and Hawaiian flights, along with separate charts for partner airlines, including American Airlines, Qatar Airways, and others.

Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines Award Chart

Flights operated entirely by Alaska Airlines or Hawaiian Airlines follow the same award chart, which covers travel within North America.

The prices below are starting rates for one-way awards. Actual prices can vary based on the route, travel dates, availability, and number of flight segments.

Within North America

Distance (miles)	Economy	First
Less than 700	From 4,500	From 15,000
701–1,400	From 7,500	From 25,000
1,401–2,100	From 10,000	From 25,000
2,101–3,500	From 12,500	From 30,000
3,501+	From 20,000	From 60,000

Flights to Europe, Asia, and beyond

Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines also operate international flights beyond North America, although there’s no published award chart for these routes.

For example, Alaska flies from Seattle (SEA) to Reykjavik (KEF), London (LHR), and Rome (FCO). While there’s no published starting price, economy awards to London and Rome often start around 30,000–42,500 points. Business-class awards can be as low as 95,000 points, although seats at that price are harder to find and actual rates can be considerably higher.

Reykjavik awards tend to start around 32,500 points in economy and 125,000 points in business class. Alaska operates this route with a smaller Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, meaning fewer seats are available to sell at the outset (hence higher prices).

Across the Pacific, Hawaiian Airlines awards from Honolulu (HNL) to Japan can start around 30,000 points in economy or 120,000 points in business class. From the mainland U.S., awards to Japan and South Korea can start around 30,000 points in economy and 150,000 points in business class.

These are examples of observed pricing rather than published award rates, so what you find may differ.

Atmos Rewards Partner Award Charts

Atmos Rewards also lets you redeem points for flights on partner airlines, including members of the Oneworld alliance and other non-alliance carriers.

Some of the bigger names include American Airlines, British Airways, Fiji Airways, Qatar Airways, Philippine Airlines, and Air Tahiti Nui, among others.

Partner awards follow separate distance-based charts organized by geographic region. Each chart lists starting redemption rates by cabin, although actual prices can be higher.

For example, Alaska offers access to additional award inventory on certain partners, including Qatar Airways. These extra seats can come with higher redemption rates than the published starting prices.

Americas

Distance (miles)	Economy	Premium economy	Business	First
Less than 700	4,500	6,000	9,000	13,500
701–1,400	7,500	10,000	15,000	25,000
1,401–2,100	12,500	17,500	25,000	40,000
2,101–4,000	17,500	22,500	35,000	52,500
4,001–6,000	25,000	32,500	50,000	75,000
6,001+	30,000	40,000	60,000	90,000

Europe, Middle East, and Africa

Distance (miles)	Economy	Premium economy	Business	First
Less than 1,500	7,500	10,000	15,000	22,500
1,501–3,500	22,500	30,000	45,000	67,500
3,501–5,000	27,500	35,000	55,000	82,500
5,001–7,000	35,000	45,000	70,000	105,000
7,001–10,000	42,500	55,000	85,000	130,000
10,000+	55,000	72,500	110,000	165,000

Asia Pacific

Distance (miles)	Economy	Premium economy	Business	First
Less than 1,500	7,500	10,000	15,000	22,500
1,501–3,000	25,000	32,500	50,000	75,000
3,001–5,000	30,000	40,000	60,000	90,000
5,001–7,000	37,500	50,000	75,000	110,000
7,001–10,000	42,500	55,000	85,000	130,000
10,000+	65,000	85,000	130,000	195,000

More on This: 7 Flights You Can Book for 4,500 Atmos Rewards Points or Less

How to Read the Atmos Rewards Award Charts

There are a few things worth knowing before using these charts.

Distance and connections matter. Atmos Rewards uses the total distance of your itinerary, including connections, to determine the applicable distance band. Adding a connection won’t necessarily increase the price, but it could push your itinerary into a higher band.
Mixed-cabin awards price at the higher cabin. If an itinerary includes both economy and business class, for example, the entire award is priced at the business class rate, regardless of how long each segment is. So, check the cabin on every flight before booking to make sure you’re getting what you expect.
Partner awards carry an additional fee. Awards involving partner airlines have a nonrefundable $20 fee per person, each way, although this fee is waived for Atmos Rewards Summit Visa Infinite cardholders. Taxes and other applicable charges still apply.

There are also a few rules specific to partner awards. Eligible international itineraries can include one stopover of up to 14 days per one-way award, and awards beginning and ending outside the United States must be booked at least 72 hours before departure.

Search Atmos Rewards Award Flights With PointsYeah

With PointsYeah, you can search Atmos Rewards award availability alongside other airline loyalty programs, view your redemption options, and see how many points you’ll need before booking.

How to Earn More Atmos Rewards Points

You don’t have to fly Alaska Airlines or Hawaiian Airlines regularly to build up a balance of Atmos Rewards points.

You can earn points through eligible flights on Alaska, Hawaiian, and partner airlines, as well as through Atmos Rewards credit cards and participating shopping and travel partners. It’s also possible to buy Atmos Rewards points (sometimes with a discount or bonus).

Atmos Rewards is also a transfer partner of Bilt Rewards, allowing eligible Bilt points to transfer at a 1:1 ratio. Alaska is also slated to add Bank of America as a transfer partner at some point in the not-so-distant future.

November 9, 2026

Alaska Airlines Lounges: Access, Locations, and Membership Pricing

Alaska Airlines operates seven Alaska Lounge locations across five airports in the United States. Each offers travelers a place to relax, grab a bite to eat, or get some work done before a flight.

There are several ways to get into an Alaska Lounge. You can purchase a membership or single-entry pass, qualify through an eligible ticket or Oneworld elite status, or receive access through certain credit cards.

Depending on how you qualify, the rules around guests, eligible flights, and partner lounges can vary.

Here’s what to know before your next visit.

Where Can You Find Alaska Lounges?

Alaska operates seven lounges across five airports, including three at its Seattle-Tacoma (SEA) hub.

All Alaska Lounges offer complimentary food, drinks, Wi-Fi, and seating. Guests can also enjoy pancake printers, complimentary coffee and espresso beverages, local beers, West Coast wines, and select cocktails.

Airport	Lounge Location	Hours
Anchorage (ANC)	Concourse C, near Gate C1	5 a.m.–1 a.m.
Los Angeles (LAX)	Terminal 6, mezzanine near Gate 64	5 a.m.–11 p.m.
Portland (PDX)	South Hall, mezzanine	4:30 a.m.–10:30 p.m.
San Francisco (SFO)	Terminal 1, across from Gate B6	5 a.m.–11 p.m.
Seattle (SEA), C Concourse	Mezzanine near Gate C16	5 a.m.–7 p.m.
Seattle (SEA), D Concourse	Beyond Security Checkpoint 4	5 a.m.–11 p.m.
Seattle (SEA), N Concourse	Mezzanine above Gates N13–N18	5 a.m.–11 p.m.

Hours are subject to change, so double-check Alaska’s lounge directory before your visit.

Alaska Lounge members also have access to Hawaiian Airlines’ The Plumeria Lounge at Honolulu (HNL), although it’s not technically an Alaska Lounge.

Who Can Access an Alaska Lounge?

To enter an Alaska Lounge, you’ll typically need a same-day boarding pass on Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, another Oneworld airline, or one of Alaska’s other global airline partners.

Eligible travelers include:

Alaska Lounge members: Travelers with an active Alaska Lounge or Alaska Lounge+ membership.
Single-entry passholders: Travelers who purchase a $70 lounge pass.
First class passengers: Travelers on eligible paid or award first class tickets on Alaska or Hawaiian Airlines.
Oneworld elite members: Travelers with eligible Oneworld Sapphire or Emerald status, subject to itinerary requirements.
International premium cabin passengers: Eligible first and business class travelers on Oneworld airlines.
Admirals Club members: Eligible American Airlines Admirals Club members and certain Citi / AAdvantage Executive World Legend Mastercard primary cardholders.
Credit card passholders: Travelers using an eligible Atmos Rewards Summit Visa Infinite lounge pass.

Keep in mind that Alaska elite status alone doesn’t guarantee access when flying domestically. Likewise, not every first class ticket includes complimentary entry.

Alaska Lounge membership pricing

Alaska offers two annual membership options.

Membership	Annual Price	Access
Alaska Lounge	$595	All Alaska Lounges and The Plumeria Lounge
Alaska Lounge+	$795	All Alaska Lounges, The Plumeria Lounge, and nearly 90 partner lounges

Both memberships allow up to two guests or immediate family members (a partner and children under 21) at no additional charge.

Memberships are valid for one year and can be purchased or renewed online or at an Alaska Lounge.

Atmos Rewards members who reach the 30K milestone can select a $100 membership discount as an annual milestone benefit. Eligible Atmos Rewards Ascent Visa Signature and Atmos Rewards Visa Business cardholders also receive $100 off an Alaska Lounge+ membership when purchasing it with their card. These discounts aren’t combinable.

What does Alaska Lounge+ include?

The main difference between the two memberships is access to nearly 90 partner lounges, including American Airlines Admirals Clubs, select Qantas Clubs, and other participating locations.

For example, Lounge+ members can visit Admirals Clubs when arriving or departing on eligible Alaska, Hawaiian, or American Airlines flights. They can also bring their immediate family or up to two guests traveling on eligible flights.

However, Lounge+ doesn’t include access to American Airlines Flagship Lounges or other premium lounges outside the membership program.

Partner lounge eligibility varies by location and airline, so check the partner lounge directory before traveling.

Alaska Airlines lounge at PDX. — Alaska Airlines Lounge at PDX. ALASKA AIRLINES

How Do Alaska Lounge Single-Entry Passes Work?

Alaska sells single-entry lounge passes for $70 per person, subject to space availability.

Passes are sold within three hours of departure and are valid only at the lounge where they’re purchased.

You’ll need a same-day boarding pass on Alaska, Hawaiian, another Oneworld airline, or an eligible global partner. Children under two can accompany an adult passholder at no additional charge.

Passes are nonrefundable, although first-time lounge members who purchase a membership within 30 days can request a refund for one qualifying pass.

Because Alaska may restrict pass sales when lounges are busy, it’s best to confirm availability at the lounge before purchasing.

Do Alaska First Class Tickets Include Lounge Access?

Some do, but the rules depend on the flight.

Travelers booked in eligible paid or award first class on Alaska or Hawaiian Airlines receive complimentary lounge access when at least one flight on their itinerary is 2,000 miles or longer.

That includes many coast-to-coast flights and flights between Hawaii and the continental United States.

Passengers on shorter first class flights can purchase a discounted $40 single-entry pass (again, subject to availability).

There are two exceptions worth knowing:

Club 49 members: Eligible travelers flying paid or award first class to, from, or through Alaska can access Alaska Lounges regardless of flight distance.
First class upgrades: Travelers upgraded into first class on Alaska flights within the United States, Canada, or Mexico don’t qualify for complimentary access. They can purchase a discounted $40 pass.

In short, an upgrade to first class doesn’t come with the same lounge benefits as an eligible paid or award ticket.

Alaska Airlines lounge at ANC. — Alaska Airlines Lounge at ANC. ALASKA AIRLINES

Can Atmos Rewards and Oneworld Elite Members Access Alaska Lounges?

Alaska Airlines is a member of the Oneworld alliance, which provides lounge benefits to eligible Sapphire and Emerald elite members.

Atmos Rewards Gold, Platinum, and Titanium members can access Alaska Lounges when traveling on qualifying international Oneworld itineraries to destinations outside the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

American Airlines AAdvantage Platinum, Platinum Pro, and Executive Platinum members also receive Oneworld lounge benefits, although American’s rules exclude travel solely within the United States, Canada, most of Mexico, and the Caribbean.

Travelers who earned Oneworld Sapphire or Emerald status through another member airline can access Alaska Lounges even when traveling on domestic Oneworld flights.

Eligible Sapphire and Emerald members can bring one guest.

Can American Airlines Admirals Club Members Access Alaska Lounges?

Yes. Alaska and American Airlines have reciprocal lounge arrangements.

Eligible Admirals Club members can access Alaska Lounges when arriving or departing on qualifying Alaska, Hawaiian, or American Airlines flights.

That includes primary cardholders of the Citi / AAdvantage Executive World Legend Mastercard, which provides an Admirals Club membership. Authorized users, however, don’t receive complimentary Alaska Lounge access through their card privileges.

Eligible Admirals Club members can bring up to two guests or their immediate family (a partner and children under 18).

Members must present their current digital Admirals Club membership card, while Citi AAdvantage Executive primary cardholders must present their physical credit card.

Without it, you will more than likely be denied entry.

Which Credit Cards Offer Alaska Lounge Access?

Alaska’s Atmos Rewards credit cards primarily offer lounge passes or membership discounts rather than a full lounge membership.

The Atmos Rewards Summit Visa Infinite card offers lounge day passes that can be used at Alaska Lounge locations with an eligible same-day boarding pass. These passes don’t include access to Hawaiian Airlines’ The Plumeria Lounge.

Meanwhile, eligible Atmos Rewards Ascent Visa Signature and Atmos Rewards Visa Business cardholders receive $100 off an annual Alaska Lounge+ membership when purchasing it with their card.

That reduces the standard $795 price to $695, provided the cardholder isn’t using another membership discount.

For frequent Alaska flyers, a membership may make sense, particularly if they regularly travel through Seattle or can use the broader partner lounge network. Occasional travelers may find that an eligible first class ticket, credit card lounge pass, or single-entry purchase is sufficient.

November 9, 2026

Alaska Airlines Adds 6 New Routes for 2027, Including Flights to Tokyo, Osaka, and Tahiti

Alaska Airlines is adding several new routes for 2027, including three international flights to Japan and French Polynesia.

The airline announced new nonstop service from Seattle to Osaka and Papeete, Tahiti, on October 20. And it’s following that up with another expansion, including its first nonstop flight between Anchorage and Tokyo Narita.

While the Seattle routes will operate on Hawaiian Airlines’ widebody aircraft, the Anchorage–Tokyo flight will use something a little different: a Boeing 737 MAX 8.

Here’s what’s coming next year.

Alaska Adds 3 New International Routes for 2027

Alaska’s international expansion includes two new year-round routes from Seattle and seasonal service from Anchorage to Tokyo.

Route	Launch Date	Frequency	Aircraft
Seattle (SEA) ↔ Osaka (KIX)	May 14, 2027	4X weekly, year-round	Hawaiian A330-200
Anchorage (ANC) ↔ Tokyo Narita (NRT)	May 13, 2027	Daily during summer	Alaska 737 MAX 8
Seattle (SEA) ↔ Papeete (PPT)	June 11, 2027	3X weekly, year-round	Hawaiian A330-200

The Anchorage–Tokyo route will initially operate through September 7, 2027, with service scheduled to resume three times weekly in January 2028.

All three routes are on sale and bookable with cash or Atmos Rewards points. Some, including Seattle–Osaka, are already bookable with partner currencies such as American Airlines AAdvantage miles. Others, including Anchorage–Tokyo, aren’t yet available through partners.

You can search these routes on PointsYeah and set award alerts to keep an eye on availability as more options become bookable.

Seattle to Osaka and Tahiti

The Seattle routes are part of Alaska’s broader effort to turn its largest hub into a major international gateway.

Starting May 14, 2027, Hawaiian Airlines will fly between Seattle and Osaka four times weekly. The service will complement Hawaiian’s existing Honolulu–Osaka route.

Then, on June 11, Hawaiian will begin flying between Seattle and Papeete three times weekly.

This is a neat addition for travelers headed to French Polynesia. Alaska says the new service will provide convenient one-stop connections from cities across its domestic network, with same-day onward connections to Bora Bora and Moorea.

Both flights will operate on Hawaiian’s Airbus A330-200 aircraft, which feature lie-flat business class seats and complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi for Atmos Rewards members.

Hawaiian’s A330 fleet is also scheduled to begin receiving updated interiors in 2028, including new premium seating and a full cabin refresh.

Anchorage to Tokyo Narita

Alaska’s newest international announcement is a little more unusual.

Beginning May 13, 2027, the airline will launch nonstop service between Anchorage and Tokyo Narita using a Boeing 737 MAX 8.

That’s a narrowbody aircraft rather than the larger jets typically associated with transpacific service. And unlike Hawaiian’s A330s, which feature lie-flat business class seats, Alaska’s MAX 8 offers domestic-style First Class recliners.

The Anchorage–Tokyo route will operate daily during the summer season, with three-times-weekly service scheduled to begin in January 2028.

Alaska Is Also Adding 3 Domestic Routes From Anchorage

On the domestic side, Alaska is also adding seasonal nonstop flights to Austin, Dallas–Fort Worth, and Nashville.

Route	Service Dates	Frequency
Anchorage (ANC) ↔ Austin (AUS)	June 12 – August 7, 2027	Once weekly
Anchorage (ANC) ↔ Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW)	June 12 – August 7, 2027	Once weekly
Anchorage (ANC) ↔ Nashville (BNA)	June 12 – August 7, 2027	Once weekly

All three routes will operate on Saturdays.

These flights will give travelers additional nonstop options for reaching Alaska during the summer, while also making it easier for Anchorage residents to reach destinations farther east without connecting through Seattle.

October 27, 2026

When Do Airline Miles Expire? Rules for 7 U.S. Airlines

Do airline miles expire? It depends on which loyalty program you’re using.

Most major U.S. airlines have eliminated mileage expiration. This means you don’t have to worry about losing your rewards just because you haven’t flown in a while. But a few programs still have expiration rules, and they’re not all the same.

Here’s how mileage expiration works across seven U.S. airline loyalty programs, including what you can do to keep your points and miles from disappearing.

American Airlines AAdvantage

American Airlines AAdvantage miles expire after 24 months without qualifying account activity.

Fortunately, keeping your miles alive is fairly easy. Earning or redeeming miles resets the clock, including through eligible partner activity (like using the AAdvantage eShopping portal, for example) or by buying, gifting, or transferring miles.

There are also two important exceptions. Members under 21 are exempt from mileage expiration until they turn 21. And if you’re the primary cardmember on an open AAdvantage co-branded credit card, your miles won’t expire under the standard 24-month rule.

United MileagePlus

United MileagePlus miles don’t expire, regardless of how long your account has been inactive.

As long as your MileagePlus account remains open and in good standing, your miles won’t go anywhere. There’s no activity requirement to keep them.

Delta SkyMiles

Delta SkyMiles don’t expire, either.

You can go years without earning or redeeming miles and still keep your balance. However, Delta can close accounts under certain circumstances, which may result in forfeiting any remaining miles.

As long as your account remains open and in good standing, there’s no mileage expiration deadline to worry about.

Southwest Rapid Rewards

Southwest Rapid Rewards points don’t expire.

Like United and Delta, Southwest doesn’t require you to earn or redeem points periodically to keep them active.

However, closing your Rapid Rewards account will result in forfeiting any points you haven’t redeemed. So if you have a balance, keep the account open even if you’re not flying Southwest regularly.

JetBlue TrueBlue

JetBlue TrueBlue points never expire.

There’s no inactivity requirement, so you don’t need to book flights or earn additional points just to preserve your balance.

Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards

Atmos Rewards points don’t expire.

That policy carried over when Alaska Airlines introduced Atmos Rewards and replaced its former Mileage Plan program.

Although accounts may be locked after extended inactivity and require identity verification to regain access, the points themselves don’t expire.

So there’s no need to earn or redeem points periodically just to keep your balance. Just make sure you can still access your account when you’re ready to use them.

Breeze Breezy Rewards

Breeze Airways is a notable exception. BreezePoints expire 24 months after they’re issued, regardless of whether you’ve had other account activity since then.

That means earning more points won’t reset the expiration date on your existing balance. Each batch of points has its own 24-month validity period, and Breeze uses your oldest points first when you redeem them.

There is one way around this: Primary cardmembers with an open Breeze Easy Visa account in good standing are exempt from points expiration. If you close the card, the points remaining in your account receive a new 24-month expiration period beginning on the closure date.

October 26, 2026
Fly Alaska, Ski Free: 9 Resorts Offering Perks This Winter
Alaska Airlines’ ski-and-snowboard perks are back for another winter.

The idea is pretty simple: fly Alaska to a participating destination, show your boarding pass, and unlock free or discounted perks on the mountain.

Alaska calls the promotion Atmos Rewards Alpine Getaways (though you might also know it as the Fly Alaska, Ski Free program). The returning offer gives Atmos Rewards members access to benefits at participating resorts throughout the 2026–2027 ski season.

How It Works

According to Alaska’s ski page, you’ll need to present your inbound boarding pass and Atmos Rewards number, either through the Alaska app or by email, at the participating resort.

Alaska doesn’t explicitly mention award tickets. However, since the terms require an inbound boarding pass rather than proof of a cash purchase, flights booked with Atmos Rewards points should qualify, too.

Offers, blackout dates, and redemption procedures vary by resort, so check the details for your destination before traveling.

Where You Can Use It

Alaska’s current list includes nine participating resorts, each offering different benefits.
- Alyeska Resort (Anchorage, ANC): Ski free on arrival day.
- Arctic Valley Ski Area (Anchorage, ANC): Free same-day lift ticket.
- Bogus Basin (Boise, BOI): Free same-day lift ticket.
- Crystal Mountain (Seattle, SEA): First Tracks access and complimentary summit coffee on select Atmos Members Days for eligible members during the 2026–2027 season.
- Eaglecrest Ski Area (Juneau, JNU): Free same-day lift ticket.
- Jackson Hole Mountain Resort (Jackson Hole, JAC): Free full-day lift ticket.
- Palisades Tahoe (Reno-Tahoe, RNO): Complimentary half-day lift tickets from March 1 through April 30, 2027.
- Schweitzer Mountain Resort (Spokane, GEG): Ski free on arrival day.
- Sun Peaks Resort (Kelowna, YLW): Ski free on arrival day or the following day.
Most participating resorts offer a free lift ticket on the day you arrive, provided you show your boarding pass and ID. Crystal Mountain and Palisades Tahoe have more specific eligibility requirements, so pay particular attention to their terms.

You can search for flights to any of these destinations using PointsYeah.

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Pack the Skis Without the Oversize Fee

There’s a baggage perk worth knowing about, too.

When flying Alaska, properly packed skis and snowboards can exceed the usual 62-inch linear size limit, up to 115 inches, without incurring an oversize baggage fee. As long as the bag weighs 50 pounds or less, you’ll pay the standard checked-bag fee.

Alaska also counts one pair of skis and poles, or one snowboard, plus a separate boot-and-helmet bag as a single checked bag. However, that additional bag can’t contain clothing or other gear.

Overweight fees still apply to bags exceeding 50 pounds, and Alaska notes that baggage policies are subject to change.
October 25, 2026
Earn 100,000 Points and a Companion Award With the Atmos Rewards Summit Card
The Atmos™ Rewards Summit Visa Infinite® Credit Card from Bank of America has a limited-time welcome offer that pairs a sizable points bonus with a companion award.

New cardholders can earn 100,000 bonus points and a 25,000-point Global Companion Award after spending $6,000 on purchases within 90 days of account opening.

The card has a $395 annual fee and comes with a ton of benefits that can prove useful for frequent travelers, status chasers, and anyone looking to earn (and redeem) a useful airline rewards currency.

What Can You Do With Atmos Rewards Points?

Atmos Rewards is the shared loyalty program of Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines. Points are redeemable for flights on both carriers, Oneworld airlines (such as American Airlines and British Airways), and other partners.

Of all the ways to redeem Atmos Rewards points, a few stand out. These include short-haul domestic and international flights starting at 4,500 points, business class flights from the U.S. to Europe starting at 45,000 points, and more.

The Summit card’s welcome bonus could cover quite a few of those shorter flights or help unlock some of the longer, more expensive ones. Plus, the card waives partner award booking fees, which would otherwise cost $20 per person.

On the ground, points can also be transferred to hotel loyalty programs, including Marriott Bonvoy and Shangri-La Circle, or shared for free with up to 10 other Atmos Rewards members.

What Else Does the Atmos Rewards Summit Card Offer?

Beyond the welcome bonus, the Summit card has several ongoing benefits.
- 3X points: On eligible dining, purchases made outside the U.S., and Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines purchases. All other purchases earn 1X.
- 10% points bonus: On points earned from purchases if you have an eligible Bank of America or Merrill account.
- Annual companion awards: A 25,000-point Global Companion Award each account anniversary, plus a 100,000-point award after $60,000 in purchases during a card anniversary year. These awards cover up to their respective point values toward a companion’s ticket when booking award travel for two on the same itinerary.
- Status points: 10,000 each account anniversary, plus 1 status point for every $2 spent.
- Alaska Lounge passes: Two per calendar quarter, valid at Alaska Lounges only (not partner lounges).
- Wi-Fi passes: Two single-flight Alaska Airlines Wi-Fi passes per quarter.
- Free checked bag and Preferred Boarding: For you and up to six guests on the same reservation when you pay for the flight with the card.
- 20% back on inflight purchases: Food and beverages on Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines, plus Wi-Fi on Alaska Airlines.
- Up to $120 TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit: Once every four years.
- No foreign transaction fees.
One thing to keep in mind is that the lounge and Wi-Fi passes expire at the end of each quarter. They don’t roll over if you don’t use them.

Who’s Eligible for the Welcome Bonus?

You can hold more than one Atmos Rewards credit card and potentially earn the welcome bonus on each. So having the Atmos Rewards Ascent or Atmos Rewards Business card doesn’t automatically prevent you from qualifying for the Summit’s offer.

However, Bank of America’s application restrictions still apply.

The issuer is known to impose a 2/3/4 rule, which generally limits approvals to two new Bank of America cards in 30 days, three in 12 months, and four in 24 months. These limits generally apply to personal cards rather than Bank of America business cards.

As always, approval isn’t guaranteed (and the pre-qualification tool isn’t always accurate), so you’ll want to review the offer’s eligibility terms before applying.
October 22, 2026

Alaska Offers Discounted Flights to Hawaii, Europe, and Asia From 11,500 Points

Alaska Airlines is out with a new round of discounted flights as part of its monthly Atmos Members Day promotion.

This month’s Global Getaways offers feature nine destinations across Hawaii, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. One-way flights start at just 11,500 Atmos Rewards points for Hawaii or 25,000 points for international destinations.

The promotion covers travel between December 1, 2026, and May 12, 2027, depending on the destination. But you’ll need to book by November 7, 2026, to take advantage of the deals.

November Atmos Rewards Global Getaways Deals

Nine destinations are included in November’s promotion, including four Hawaiian islands.

Destination	One-Way Starting Price	Travel Dates
Honolulu, Hawaii (HNL)	11,500 points	Dec. 1, 2026–Mar. 10, 2027
Maui, Hawaii (OGG)	11,500 points	Dec. 1, 2026–Mar. 10, 2027
Kona, Hawaii (KOA)	11,500 points	Dec. 1, 2026–Mar. 10, 2027
Lihue, Hawaii (LIH)	11,500 points	Dec. 1, 2026–Mar. 10, 2027
Venice, Italy (VCE)	25,000 points	Jan. 15–May 12, 2027
Mumbai, India (BOM)	30,000 points	Jan. 15–May 12, 2027
Amman, Jordan (AMM)	30,000 points	Jan. 15–May 12, 2027
Singapore (SIN)	30,000 points	Jan. 15–May 12, 2027
Catania, Italy (CTA)	30,000 points	Jan. 15–May 12, 2027

These are starting prices, so the number of points required will depend on your departure airport, travel dates, and award availability. You’ll also be responsible for applicable taxes and fees.

Alaska award operated by RAM from MIA to CTA. — POINTSYEAH

Hawaii is the cheapest option this month, with flights to Honolulu, Maui, Kona, and Lihue starting at 11,500 points one-way. For international travel, Venice has the lowest advertised rate at 25,000 points, while the other four destinations start at 30,000 points.

Note that domestic and international destinations have different travel windows, though.

More on This: 5 Airlines That Give You Elite Status Credit When Flying With Points and Miles

How to Book These Deals

You can find the discounted flights by searching on PointsYeah or visiting Alaska Airlines’ website and selecting “Use points.”

Just remember that you’ll need to book by November 7, 2026. Eligible travel dates vary by destination, so check the dates before making plans.

October 7, 2026

5 Airlines That Give You Elite Status Credit When Flying With Points and Miles
One lesser-known benefit of redeeming points and miles for flights is that, with some airlines, those trips can still count toward earning elite status.

Yes, it’s possible to fly using your miles and earn credit toward qualifying for elite status at the same time.

Not every airline offers this benefit, but it’s worth knowing about if you’re working toward a new status tier or trying to maintain the one you already have.

Here’s a look at five airline loyalty programs that offer elite status credit on eligible flights booked with points and miles.

Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards

Atmos Rewards is particularly generous when it comes to earning elite status credit on flights booked with points.

Through the end of 2026, members earn 1 status point for every mile flown on eligible flights booked with Atmos Rewards points. That includes flights operated by Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, and eligible partner airlines.

For example, a 2,500-mile flight booked with points could earn 2,500 status points, regardless of how many points you redeemed for the ticket.

But things are changing in 2027.

Starting January 1, Atmos Rewards members will be able to choose how they earn points and status points. And that choice will also determine how much status credit they earn on flights booked with points.

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There will be three options:
- Distance traveled: 1 status point per mile flown
- Price paid: 1 status point per 20 points redeemed
- Segments flown: 500 status points per flight segment
For example, a 2,500-mile nonstop flight booked for 20,000 Atmos Rewards points would earn 2,500 status points under the distance-based option, 1,000 under the price-based option, or 500 under the segment-based option.

Of course, the math can change depending on the routes you fly and how many points you’re redeeming. One earning method could be considerably more rewarding than another.

One important distinction is that flights booked with points earn status points only, not additional redeemable Atmos Rewards points.

Delta SkyMiles

Delta lets SkyMiles members earn Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs) on eligible flights booked with miles.

The earning rate is pretty simple: members earn 1 MQD for every 100 SkyMiles redeemed.

So, a Delta flight costing 40,000 SkyMiles would earn 400 MQDs toward Medallion status. And this benefit also extends to eligible upgrades purchased with miles.

However, Delta’s Main Basic fares are excluded from earning MQDs through mileage redemptions.

United MileagePlus

United MileagePlus members can earn both Premier Qualifying Points (PQP) and Premier Qualifying Flights (PQF) when redeeming miles for eligible United and United Express flights.

Members earn 1 PQP for every 100 MileagePlus miles redeemed, along with one PQF for each eligible United or United Express flight.

For example, a nonstop United flight costing 30,000 miles would earn 300 PQP and one PQF toward Premier status.

Eligible seat upgrades purchased with miles can also earn PQP.

The benefit also applies to United-operated segments on itineraries that include partner airlines. However, flights operated by those partners won’t earn PQP or PQF from the mileage redemption.

Another useful detail is that PQP goes to the person flying, not necessarily the person who redeemed the miles.

So, if you use your MileagePlus miles to book a flight for someone else, that traveler receives the qualifying credit.

United also allows members to use PQP earned from flights booked with miles toward additional PlusPoints, not just Premier status.

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Virgin Atlantic Flying Club

Virgin Atlantic Flying Club members can earn Tier Points on eligible flights booked with Virgin Points.

Unlike Delta and United, which calculate status earnings based on the number of miles redeemed, Virgin Atlantic awards a fixed number of Tier Points depending on the cabin.

Members earn the following amounts on eligible flights booked with points.
- Economy: 25 Tier Points
- Premium: 50 Tier Points
- Upper Class: 100 Tier Points
That means two passengers redeeming different amounts of points for the same flight and cabin could earn the same number of Tier Points.

The benefit applies to eligible Virgin Atlantic-operated flights, not partner airline redemptions.

Qantas Frequent Flyer

Qantas offers a similar benefit, although there’s an additional requirement.

Members with Points Club or Points Club Plus can earn Status Credits when redeeming Qantas Points for eligible Classic Flight Rewards and Classic Plus Flight Rewards.

The number of Status Credits depends on the route and cabin. For example, an eligible business-class flight between Australia and the U.S. West Coast earns 72 Status Credits.

However, Qantas is retiring Points Club on December 8, 2026. Existing eligible members will retain their benefits through the end of their next membership year, so this benefit won’t disappear immediately for everyone.

What About Other Airlines?

The majority of major airline loyalty programs don’t offer elite status credit for flights booked with points and miles.

American Airlines AAdvantage, Air Canada Aeroplan, and Southwest Rapid Rewards are among the programs that exclude these flights from their standard flight-based elite qualification requirements.

It’s also worth distinguishing between earning elite status credit and earning additional redeemable miles. Even when a flight booked with points counts toward status, it generally won’t earn more miles for future travel.

If you’re working toward elite status, it’s worth checking whether flights booked with points count toward qualification. Depending on the airline, you could use points for your next trip without giving up progress toward your next status tier.
October 7, 2026
7 Flights You Can Book for 4,500 Atmos Rewards Points or Less

A few thousand airline points might not seem particularly useful. But with Atmos Rewards, they can get you farther than you might expect.

Short flights are one of the more interesting parts of the Atmos Rewards redemption charts. Partner flights within the Americas covering less than 600 miles start at just 4,500 points each way in economy.

Flights operated by Alaska or Hawaiian Airlines work a little differently. Routes covering less than 700 miles can also be particularly cheap, and we’ve found some starting below 4,500 points.

Here are seven examples we’ve found on PointsYeah, from the Bahamas and Canada to Hawaii and Alaska.

Miami to Nassau on American Airlines

One of the more fun uses of 4,500 points doesn’t even keep you in the U.S.

American Airlines flies from Miami (MIA) to Nassau (NAS). That flight covers less than 200 miles. And when the lowest partner price is available, it costs just 4,500 Atmos Rewards points in economy.

That’s not bad for a flight to the Bahamas.

POINTSYEAH

Phoenix to Salt Lake City on American Airlines

The same pricing works for more ordinary domestic travel.

American’s flight from Phoenix (PHX) to Salt Lake City (SLC) falls within the lowest distance band, and we’ve found seats for 4,500 points.

It’s a good example of how a small balance can cover a practical trip, too.

POINTSYEAH

Boston to Toronto on Porter Airlines

Porter Airlines opens up another set of possibilities. The Canadian carrier joined Alaska’s partner network in 2023, and it gives Atmos Rewards members access to its growing network in Canada and the U.S.

Its flight from Boston (BOS) to Toronto’s Billy Bishop Airport (YTZ) is available for 4,500 Atmos Rewards points.

Billy Bishop sits just outside downtown Toronto. It’s also a much smaller (and more convenient) airport than Toronto Pearson (YYZ).

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New York to Toronto on Porter Airlines

Porter also flies from New York-LaGuardia (LGA) to Toronto Pearson (YYZ).

We’ve found the route starting at the same 4,500-point price, giving Boston another inexpensive way to get to Toronto with Atmos Rewards points.

POINTSYEAH

Honolulu to Lihue on Hawaiian Airlines

Atmos Rewards can also be useful for getting between the Hawaiian Islands.

Hawaiian Airlines flights from Honolulu (HNL) to Lihue (LIH) is available for 4,500 points. Similar pricing can show up on other Neighbor Island routes as well.

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Seattle to Ketchikan on Alaska Airlines

Here’s where the pricing gets a little more interesting.

Alaska-operated flights use a different chart, and some short flights actually dip below 4,500 points.

We’ve found Seattle (SEA) to Ketchikan (KTN) for as few as 4,000 Atmos Rewards points, getting you from the Lower 48 to Southeast Alaska.

POINTSYEAH

Anchorage to Kodiak on Alaska Airlines

We’ve also found Anchorage (ANC) to Kodiak (ADQ) starting at 4,000 points.

That’s below the 4,500-point starting price for short partner flights within the Americas.

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Search Beyond These 7 Routes

These are just a few examples. It’s nowhere near a definitive list. American and Porter alone operate plenty of other routes short enough to fall within the lowest partner distance band, while Alaska and Hawaiian have their own short-haul possibilities.

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Availability and pricing vary by date. But a balance of 4,000 or 5,000 Atmos Rewards points can be more useful than it may seem at a glance.

October 5, 2026
Alaska Airlines Is Selling Atmos Rewards Points With up to a 110% Bonus
Buying airline points might sound like an unnecessary extra step. After all, if a flight is available, why not just pay for it?

Sometimes there’s a good reason. Buying the points needed to book a flight can cost less than paying for airfare directly.

Alaska Airlines sells Atmos Rewards points throughout the year and periodically runs promotions that lower their cost. There’s little reason to buy just because a sale is happening. But with a trip already in mind, it takes only a few minutes to see whether buying points could save money.

Current Atmos Rewards Buy Points Offer

Alaska Airlines is currently offering up to a 110% bonus when buying Atmos Rewards points through November 7.

There’s a catch with that “up to” language. The offer appears to vary by member, and it’s not clear what determines who gets the full 110% bonus. A 100% bonus appears to be more widely available.

With a 100% bonus, Atmos Rewards points cost about 1.88 cents each after the 7.5% federal excise tax. Members targeted for the 110% bonus can buy them for about 1.79 cents each.
- Current promotion: Up to 110% bonus
- Price per point: About 1.79 cents with a 110% bonus; about 1.88 cents with a 100% bonus
- Offer ends: November 7, 2026
- Purchase limit: Up to 100,000 points per transaction before the bonus
- Annual limit: 250,000 points purchased or received as gifts; no annual purchase limit for Atmos Rewards elite members
Buy Atmos Rewards points directly from Alaska Airlines

Alaska runs points sales periodically, so there’s rarely a reason to buy solely because a promotion is ending. The history below shows how the current offer compares with previous ones. Click the arrow to see past offers.

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More on This: Current Buy Points and Miles Offers

When Buying Atmos Rewards Points Makes Sense

The easiest way to decide whether buying points makes sense is to compare what the flight costs in cash with what it would cost to buy the points needed to book it.

The math is simple:

Points needed × current price per point = cost to buy the points

Say a flight is available for 20,000 Atmos Rewards points. At roughly 1.88 cents each with a 100% bonus, buying those points would cost about $376.

If the same flight costs $500 in cash, buying the points could come out ahead. If it costs $300, paying cash is the easy choice.

Members targeted for the 110% bonus have slightly better math. Those same 20,000 points would cost about $358 at roughly 1.79 cents each.

That’s why the percentage bonus isn’t especially useful on its own. What matters is the price of the flight, how many points it requires, and what those points cost to buy.

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More on This: How to Search for Flights with PointsYeah

Don’t Buy Points Just Because They’re on Sale

There’s little reason to stock up on Atmos Rewards points without a trip in mind. Alaska sells points regularly and runs purchase promotions periodically.

Instead, start with the flight. Check the cash price, search how many Atmos Rewards points it requires, and calculate what those points would cost to buy.

Sometimes cash wins. Sometimes points do.

And when buying the points costs less, it can be a straightforward way to save on a flight that was already in the plans.
October 2, 2026