Building on the last post about how crappy USAir has become with redeeming miles, I checked in on Alaska Air today. As of April 1st, 2008, any inactivity for 2 years means your miles get yanked. It used to be 3 years. While not as bad as United or American’s policies of 18 months, it is a shortening of time and can put miles at risk if you haven’t used Alaska in a while.
One way to get around the need to keep flying with them is to use a partner, such as a car rental or hotel, and get the miles posted. Or, the ultra lazy way, apply for a Alaska Air credit card which makes a 2000 mile deposit on your anniversary. Plus you get a $50 companion ticket anywhere Alaska flies, including Mexico.
