Emirates Modifies Fare Classes, Upgrades & Earnings for Economy & Business Flyers

Joe Cortez January 16, 2015

Emirates is expanding its fares chart to four classes, increasing the amount of in-flight miles earned for higher priced tickets.

In what is becoming a bigger trend among loyalty programs, Emirates is switching around how its flyers earn miles in the air. Business Traveler reports the UAE flag carrier is changing fare classes for their most popular service classes — economy and business.

The new fare system is the first major change affecting Skywards since 2009. Starting February 1, Emirates will offer four classes of fares in both economy and business class: Special, Saver, Flex and Flex Plus. The Special fare class is classified as the most inexpensive airfare, but it is also the one that will come with the greatest number of restrictions. The Special fare class will earn the least amount of miles for Emirates Skywards members. Conversely, the Flex Plus category will offer the greatest amount miles and flexibility for travelers.

The way upgrades are awarded will be changing as well. Special fares will not be available for upgrades based on points or status, while upgrades on Economy Saver fares and above will be made available at least 24 hours prior to a flight.

Going unchanged are the mileage bonuses available to elite Emirates Skywards flyers. Those who hold status with the carrier can earn a mile bonus between 25 and 75 percent, based on their status. The new mileage calculator is available to Skywards members on the Emirates website.

In an email to Skywards members, the airline stated that the new rules will go into effect for all flights booked after February 1. Flights prior to that date will still be subject to the current rules, including miles earned and upgrade availability.

The changes reflect a bigger trend in loyalty programs around the world. Last year, Delta Air Lines announced a similar change to their SkyMiles program, breaking out ticket rules and mileage earnings across five different fare classes.

[Photo: Emirates]