Launched in 1993, Lufthansa’s Miles & More programme is one of Europe’s leading frequent flyer schemes, covering Lufthansa and a range of partner airlines, including SWISS, Austrian Airlines, and Brussels Airlines. Over the years, Miles & More has undergone several changes, with a shift towards a more revenue-based system and increased emphasis on premium travellers. The programme is well-integrated across the Lufthansa Group of airlines, offering a unified approach to earning and redeeming miles. Here’s our honest review of the Lufthansa Miles & More programme.
Points Earning Rates on Short, Mid, and Long-Haul Flights
Miles & More awards miles based on the fare class and distance flown, with higher multipliers for premium cabins. Economy class travellers can expect to earn between 25-100% of the miles flown, depending on the fare class, while business and first-class tickets earn between 150-300%. Short-haul flights generally offer lower mileage accruals, while mid- and long-haul flights provide more significant earning opportunities.
How Easy is it to Redeem Points for Flights?
Redeeming Miles & More points can be challenging, particularly for premium cabin redemptions on Lufthansa-operated flights, where award availability can be limited. Booking well in advance is often necessary, and taxes and surcharges can be high, especially on long-haul flights. However, partner airline redemptions, particularly with carriers like SWISS and Austrian Airlines, can offer better availability and value.
Introduction to the Status Tiers
Miles & More offers three main status tiers: Frequent Traveller (Star Alliance Silver), Senator (Star Alliance Gold), and HON Circle (exclusive benefits). Frequent Traveller status requires 35,000 status miles, while Senator status, which includes Star Alliance Gold benefits like lounge access, requires 100,000 status miles within a calendar year. Each tier offers enhanced benefits, including priority check-in, additional baggage allowance, and lounge access for Senator members.
Tier Point Accrual Rates on Short, Mid, and Long-Haul Flights
Status miles are accrued based on the fare class and distance flown. For example, a short-haul flight within Europe in economy might earn 500-1,000 status miles, while a long-haul business class flight could yield 10,000+ status miles, depending on the route and fare class.
Approximate Cost and Travel Required to Reach Senator Status
Reaching Senator status typically requires an investment of €7,000 to €10,000, depending on your travel patterns. Regular long-haul flights in business or first class will help you reach the 100,000 status miles required for Senator status.
Overall Quality of the Lounges and Cabin Products
Lufthansa’s Senator and Business Lounges offer a mid-range experience, with comfortable seating, limited options, and quiet spaces for relaxation. Lufthansa’s business class cabin is solid, though it’s worth noting that some aircraft still feature older seats that are less competitive compared to newer products from other airlines.
BG1 Verdict
Lufthansa Miles & More is a strong frequent flyer programme, particularly for travellers based in Europe. The path to Senator status is challenging but rewarding, offering access to Lufthansa’s premium lounges and Star Alliance Gold benefits. However, the high surcharges on award tickets and limited award availability in premium cabins can diminish the value for some members. Overall, if you’re a frequent flyer within the Lufthansa Group, the benefits of Miles & More status are worthwhile, but the programme may not be the best fit for budget-conscious travellers.
Where Can I Sign-Up?
If our review of Lufthansa Miles & More has piqued your interest, you can sign up easily by visiting the Miles & More Enrolment Page and following the registration process.
Read our other reviews of Star Alliance frequent flyer programmes.
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