The Alaska Mileage program that was once favoured by many for their sweet spot redemptions on Emirates, especially when it was at a mere 90,000 Alaska miles for a First class one way trip between North America to Middle East/India. The biggest devaluation came in March 2016, when they suddenly and without any notice increased that to 150,000 Alaska miles.
And now we see yet another – not so much as a devaluation, but a restriction:
There is a note that says “Beginning April 1, 2021, Emirates will no longer allow partner access to First Class award bookings. Mileage Plan members can continue to redeem on the Emirates’ award-winning Economy Class and Business Class.”
I did a random search on May 03, and it shows availability and allows you to book in First Class.
I doubt this is initiated by Alaska, as else they would have simply increased the miles needed to say 200,000 or even 225,000 for e.g. for a First Class redemption, which would then need a proportionate increase for Economy and Business Class redemptions too. Perhaps, Skywards wants to allow their members to have the first dip at these award seats especially since they have also done away with high surcharges.
So, if you were planning on experiencing the blingy experience again with the shower spa and the bar at the back(closed currently to just hang around), make sure you book by March 31, 2021 to grab your seat.
Written by Dominic Fernandes aka CanadaPointsGuy.
Image courtesy of Tim Dennert on Unsplash
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