Alaska Airlines has one of the best frequent flyer plans on the market, even for travelers that live far from its hub. Members from all 50 states earn miles every time they fly Alaska Airlines, Horizon Air, or any one of its airline partners, which include Air France, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and British Airways.
Like the larger carrier programs, users earn miles according to how many miles you fly (rather than how many dollars you spend). A domestic round-trip fare starts at 25,000 miles, but members get 500 bonus miles just for signing up and miles don't expire as long as your account is active within a two-year period.
Members can also redeem their miles for trips on any of the many partner airlines as well. "That added flexibility gives them a leg up," said Christopher Barnard, president of Points.com, a reward program management site.
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