The British Airways Executive Club, established in 1983, is one of the oldest frequent flyer programmes, offering members a wide range of benefits across British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus, and other IAG-owned airlines. Over the years, the programme has expanded to include partnerships with all Oneworld carriers, allowing members to earn and redeem Avios (Executive Club’s currency) on a broad network. Known for its generous Avios earning rates on premium cabins and a simple tier system, the programme has become especially popular for travellers in the UK and Europe. Here’s our honest review of British Airways Executive Club.
Points Earning Rates on Short, Mid, and Long-Haul Flights
The Avios earning rates on British Airways flights vary based on distance and fare class. Economy flights offer 25-100% of miles flown as Avios, while premium economy awards 100-125%. Business class earns 150%, and first class earns up to 250%. Short-haul flights yield fewer Avios, while mid- and long-haul business and first-class flights maximise earning potential, especially on transatlantic or intercontinental routes.
How Easy is it to Redeem Points for Flights?
Avios redemptions are relatively straightforward, especially if you book far in advance. British Airways’ “Reward Flight Saver” programme reduces taxes and fees on short-haul economy flights, but long-haul premium redemptions can be pricey with added surcharges. Award seat availability can be competitive on popular routes, so it’s best to book early for high-demand destinations.
Introduction to the Status Tiers
The Executive Club offers four tiers: Blue (entry-level), Bronze (Oneworld Ruby), Silver (Oneworld Sapphire), and Gold (Oneworld Emerald). Bronze members receive priority check-in and seat selection, while Silver members gain lounge access and extra baggage allowances. Gold status, includes first-class lounge access and priority boarding. To reach Silver status, you need 600 Tier Points, while Gold requires 1,500 Tier Points in a membership year.
Tier Point Accrual Rates on Short, Mid, and Long-Haul Flights
British Airways awards Tier Points based on route distance and fare class. Short-haul flights typically earn 5-40 Tier Points, mid-haul flights earn 20-80, and long-haul flights range from 35-240 Tier Points in economy to first class. Business and first-class cabins provide higher Tier Points per trip, allowing quicker progression to higher tiers.
Approximate Cost and Travel Required to Reach Silver Status
Achieving Silver status (with lounge access) could cost between £2,500 and £4,000 depending on routes and fare classes. Two to three round-trip long-haul flights in business class (like London to New York) would nearly reach the 600 Tier Points required for Silver. We’ve written a guide on the easiest routes to elite status with BA.
Overall Quality of the Lounges and Cabin Products
British Airways lounges, particularly the business Club Lounge at Heathrow and Club Lounge at Gatwick, provide a solid pre-flight experience with complimentary dining, beverages, and comfortable seating. The BA first class lounges offer added luxury with more spacious seating and upscale amenities. Business and first-class cabins are comfortable and competitive, particularly on long-haul flights with amenities like lie-flat seats, quality dining, and on-demand entertainment.
BG1 Verdict
British Airways Executive Club is well-suited for UK-based travellers who fly regularly within Europe and beyond. Achieving Silver status is relatively straightforward with regular premium travel, and the added benefits like lounge access and priority boarding enhance the overall travel experience. However, high surcharges on long-haul redemptions may diminish the value for Avios collectors seeking cost-effective redemptions. Overall, Executive Club offers worthwhile benefits for frequent flyers, particularly if you can maximise Avios on partner airlines or premium flights.
Where Can I Sign-Up?
If you liked our review of British Airways Executive Club and you’re ready to start your journey to elite status, you can sign up for the programme by visiting BA Executive Club and filling out the online application form.
Read our other reviews of Oneworld frequent flyer programmes.
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