WalletHub published its 2019 ranking of the best frequent flyer programs, evaluating rewards offerings from the 10 largest U.S. airlines across 23 metrics. The analysis considers factors such as the monetary value of points and miles, blackout date policies, redemption options, and other perks that affect a traveler’s overall return.
The study named Delta SkyMiles the top frequent flyer program for the fourth consecutive year. Close behind were United Airlines’ MileagePlus, JetBlue’s TrueBlue, Southwest’s Rapid Rewards, and Hawaiian Airlines’ HawaiianMiles.
WalletHub estimates that, on average, the major airline rewards programs provide frequent flyers with roughly a 12% return on airline spending. Membership in these programs is free, allowing travelers to enroll without cost and begin accruing points or miles.
When measuring value per dollar spent, HawaiianMiles ranked highest, delivering an estimated $21.29 in rewards value per $100 spent. Alaska Airlines followed, with an estimated $18.12 returned per $100 spent. Those figures reflect WalletHub’s methodology for translating miles and points into comparable dollar values.
The report also examines program features beyond pure value. WalletHub’s scoring accounts for things like award availability, elite status benefits, ease of redemption, and whether miles expire. To help consumers make program decisions that match their travel patterns, WalletHub offers a calculator that aligns program benefits with individual travel habits and priorities.
For travelers who fly infrequently, the analysis highlights JetBlue and Delta as strong options. Both carriers stand out because their miles do not expire due to account inactivity, making them more forgiving for people who travel irregularly and want to preserve earned rewards.
Another notable trend identified in the report is the decline of blackout dates. WalletHub found that eight of the 10 largest U.S. airlines no longer enforce blackout dates on award travel, giving members greater flexibility to use miles for flights without the restriction of blocked dates.
Overall, the WalletHub report offers a comparative view of leading frequent flyer programs, weighing monetary value and practical program features so travelers can choose the rewards program that best fits their needs.