Among the 10 largest U.S. airlines' frequent-flyer programs,
JetBlue provides the most value to frequent travelers, according to credit
card-comparison site CardHub. Delta Air Lines is the most rewarding for those
who take only a few flights per year.
The site rated the programs on a 100-point scale using 23
metrics, including network size, mileage value, membership perks and such
restrictions as blackout dates and miles expiration. The site also measured
value—based on amount spent, miles earned, redemption value and perks offered—relative
to travel frequency.
For those who spent at least $5,743 per year on air travel,
JetBlue’s TrueBlue program ranked as the highest overall value, followed
closely by Delta’s SkyMiles program. Based on value alone, without considering
restrictions, Alaska Airlines had the highest score for frequent travelers.
United Airlines and Virgin America also had the highest scores for perks
offered to frequent travelers.
For both "average" flyers—those
spending about $3,105 per year on air travel—and "light" flyers—those
spending $467 per year—Delta earned the highest score overall. United placed
highest for perks provided to average flyers.