Smart Travel

Complete Guide to Indian Airline Loyalty Programs - €™ - €š -  Earn Free Flights

Published June 24, 2026 - €™ - · 9 min read

Disclaimer: Information on this page is for general guidance only. Airline policies, fares, discounts, and government rules change frequently. Always verify with the airline or official source before making decisions. Rules vary by airline, fare type, route, and date.

If you fly regularly within India, joining airline loyalty programs can earn you free flights, upgrades, and priority services. Here's how each program works.

Air India - €™ - €š -  Flying Returns

FeatureDetails
ProgramFlying Returns (part of Star Alliance)
TiersBase - €™ - Silver - €™ - Gold
How to EarnMiles per flight based on fare class and distance
RedemptionFree flights on Air India + Star Alliance partners
Best FeatureStar Alliance Gold gives lounge access on 26+ airlines worldwide
Worth It? - €™ - € - ¦ Yes for frequent flyers, especially international travellers

IndiGo - €™ - €š -  BluChip

FeatureDetails
ProgramBluChip (formerly 6E Rewards)
How to EarnPoints on every booking based on fare paid
RedemptionDiscounts on future IndiGo flights
Best FeatureSimple earn-and-burn model. No complex tiers.
Worth It? - €™ - € - ¦ Yes if you fly IndiGo regularly (India's largest airline)

Akasa Air - €™ - €š -  Akasa+ Rewards

FeatureDetails
ProgramAkasa+ Rewards
How to EarnPoints on flight bookings and partner spending
RedemptionFree flights and upgrades on Akasa Air
Best FeatureNew airline = aggressive rewards to build loyalty
Worth It? - €™ - € - ¦ Yes, especially for early adopters getting bonus points

How to Maximize Miles

  1. Always enter your loyalty number when booking
  2. Use co-branded credit cards (Air India SBI Card earns bonus miles)
  3. Book directly with airline for full miles credit
  4. Don't let miles expire - €™ - €š -  use them before expiry date
  5. Pool family miles if the program allows it
  6. Check bonus promotions - €™ - €š -  airlines often run double/triple mile offers

Which Program Is Best For You?

  • Fly mostly IndiGo? Join BluChip. Simple and effective.
  • Fly internationally? Join Air India Flying Returns (Star Alliance benefits).
  • Fly Akasa? Join Akasa+. New program with generous earning.
  • Mix of airlines? Join all programs - €™ - €š -  they're free!

Search Flights & Earn Miles

Compare fares on TheBookFlight.com. Remember to add your loyalty number after booking!

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