It’s good for travelers whenever a frequent-flyer program is rendered more flexible. That’s what discount airline AirTran Airways has done with its A+ Rewards program.
The discount airline now allows flyers to purchase A+ Rewards credits, extend the expiration of those credits, or give them to another program member, the better to rack up an awards redemption seat faster.
All this comes at a price. Members can purchase A+ credits for $39 each, plus tax. If you’re short a credit or two toward redeeming credits for a seat, this will help get you in the air faster. Credits about to expire, and go beyond heir normal one-year expiration date? Pay $29 per credit, plus tax, and extend them. If you have a friend, family member of colleague who’s an A+ member, AirTran now lets you transfer your credits to their account at a price of $19 per credit. If you’re an Elite member, there’s no charge.
As with virtually all frequent-flyer programs, A+ Rewards seats are subject to availability as well as blackout dates. Taxes and fees, including the September 11 security fee of as much as $2.50 per segment, are extra.
© Cheapflights Ltd Jerry Chandler
