Singapore’s KrisFlyer loyalty program is set for a devaluation effective November 1. This change will raise award rates for flights on Singapore Airlines, partner airlines, and cabin upgrades.
The airline will also introduce a new type of award ticket called “Access” starting on the same date. Access awards will enable members to book any available seat on Singapore Airlines flights, even if Saver or Advantage awards are not available. The pricing for these awards will be dynamic.
Here’s what you need to know about the changes to KrisFlyer.
KrisFlyer Devaluation
This devaluation impacts nearly every route available through KrisFlyer. For flights on Singapore Airlines, travelers may see up to a 20% increase in points required. The most significant increases will apply to Advantage awards, which are pricier but offer greater flexibility.
Here’s a breakdown of the changes for flights on Singapore Airlines:
- Saver Redemptions (Zones 1-9, Asia and Southwest Pacific): 5% decrease for economy, 5% increase for business and first class.
- Saver Redemptions (Zones 11-13, Europe and U.S.): 5% increase across all classes.
- Saver Redemptions (Zone 10, Africa, Middle East, Turkey): 10-20% increase for all classes.
- Advantage Redemptions (All Zones): 5% increase for economy, 18% for business, and 15% for first class in Zone 10; 10-15% increase for all classes in other zones.
Furthermore, flights with Star Alliance partners will become about 10% more expensive universally. Key changes for U.S. travelers include:
- Intra-North America: 15,000 miles one-way for economy, up from 14,000; 29,000 miles for business, up from 26,000.
- North America to Hawaii/Central America: 20,500 miles for economy, up from 19,500; 43,000 miles for business, up from 39,000.
- North America to Europe: 32,500 miles for economy, up from 30,500; 89,500 miles for business, up from 81,000.
Lastly, upgrading a Singapore Airlines ticket will also witness a 5-10% increase in the required miles, depending on the zone.
While this isn’t the most drastic devaluation in the loyalty landscape, it does mean higher costs for KrisFlyer awards. If you’re considering a KrisFlyer award ticket, it’s advisable to book before the price change takes effect in November.
Introduction of Access Awards
On November 1, KrisFlyer will roll out Access awards. These awards allow members to reserve any available seat on Singapore Airlines flights using their miles. Unlike Saver and Advantage awards, Access awards will be dynamically priced based on demand.
Details on pricing are yet to be announced, but if Access awards function similarly to Delta SkyMiles or United MileagePlus, expect steep prices for popular routes during peak travel times. Fortunately, the existing Saver and Advantage award charts will remain available.
Conclusion
While it’s disappointing to see a loyalty program devalue, we appreciate Singapore Airlines for providing advance notice. If you’ve been on the fence about booking a KrisFlyer award ticket, be sure to do so before November 1 to secure the current redemption rates.
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