Originally Posted by Richelieu

Because by using the mile-awarding credit card, they are not using one that could have, say, a cash-back feature. Then they can say that the miles costs them something. For example, the 1 mile for 2 dollars spend compared to a 1% cashback means that a mile obtained "costs" 0,02$. A good rate for most people, but not "free" anyway.



These are free activities, but they do not constitute the bulk of the miles earned.



I'd love to see numbers about redeeming of miles for free tickets. I was under the impression that large majority of miles are given to unfrequent flyers, who will not accrue enough miles to get a free ticket before they expire.



Indeed. There is no set value for a mile, it depends of the way they are accrued and spent, and the amount earned each year. If you have a good chance of getting an international award, you'll be ready to pay a little more for miles.