Tried searching on this topic, but didnt find anything relevant... would like some input on this.

I have approx. 17,000 AI miles EACH in 2 separate Flying Returns accounts (for a total of ~34,000 miles)- both have an miles expiration of 12/31/2014.

With no plans in the foreseeable future of any travel on AI, i am looking for suggestions/advise on what to do with these orphaned miles.

1. Will AI allow me to consolidate the miles into a single account? The 2 accounts belong to my wife and son.
2. Can the expiration be extended somehow?
3. Apart from award flight redemption, what can AI miles be used for? Can they be used for merchandise?
4. Can they be donated for a charitable cause?

Appreciate any insights into the above queries. Thanks.

1. Star Alliance Redemption using AI-FR starts @ 25,000 for round-trip - 50% for one-way.

2. Star Alliance Upgrades using AI-FR starts @ 11,500 one-way.

3. AFAIK, AI-FR allows pairing Husband-Wife FFP accounts. Call them up to get info on your case.

4. If all else fails, I would be happy to receive those miles, as an early Christmas present..!!

+1

Now that AI is inside *A, this gives you multiple options to redeem AI miles for awards on other *A members..
The earnings and redemption options for AI FR members have increased exponentially IMHO..

no, only spouses can combine accounts....

this used to be possible by paying a fee....i did this a number of years ago....you could always write to flying returns & ask if this is still possible....

nothing else....only flight redemption on ai & star alliance carriers....

no....

Thanks for all the responses!

As for account combining or extending the expiration date, I guess i will call them up and give it a shot.

I am assuming I have to call AI for *A award bookings. Whats the best way to see *A availability that AI can book -- if its available under the SAVER bucket on united.com, can i assume AI will be able to book it for me?

Redemptions will be handled by the Flying Returns team. So, while you are on call enquiring about merging the accounts & extension, also enquire about the redemption.