Sell Before They Shrink: Which Airline Miles You Should Consider Selling Before 2026
by admin
The frequent flyer landscape is changing fast. Over the past few years, several major airlines have adjusted their loyalty programs, often increasing the miles required for popular routes or shifting to dynamic pricing models that make redemption unpredictable. What was once a smart way to save on travel is now becoming a gamble on when — and how much — your miles will actually be worth.
If you’ve been collecting miles for years but don’t have a specific trip planned, it might be time to rethink your strategy. Selling your miles before upcoming changes or devaluations can help you lock in their worth and avoid watching their value shrink in 2026 and beyond.
Programs Showing Signs of Change
Flying Blue (Air France–KLM)
Flying Blue has steadily increased award prices and adjusted saver-level availability. Travelers have noticed that routes once priced affordably now require significantly more miles. If you have a large Flying Blue balance with no planned redemption, it may be wise to sell before further adjustments roll out.
British Airways & Iberia (Avios)
Avios points have seen multiple changes, including higher redemption costs and new peak/off-peak structures. With the network expanding and variable pricing becoming more common, the value of Avios can fluctuate greatly. Selling while rates remain competitive could be a safer option than waiting for another devaluation.
Qantas Frequent Flyer
Qantas has implemented several rounds of updates that raised the number of points needed for business and first-class seats. These gradual increases signal a long-term trend. Those holding substantial balances might benefit from liquidating part of their miles now, especially if they don’t foresee travel in the near term.
Hawaiian Airlines / Alaska Airlines Transition
As Hawaiian Airlines moves closer to its merger with Alaska Airlines, there’s uncertainty around how miles will convert or transfer. During such transitions, account access and redemption policies often change. Selling miles before the integration could help avoid complications or temporary freezes.
Major U.S. Carriers (Delta, American, United)
Most U.S. airlines are shifting to dynamic pricing, eliminating fixed award charts. While this can occasionally benefit travelers during off-peak times, it also means last-minute or high-demand flights can cost double or triple the miles. For many collectors, cashing out their balances now ensures real, predictable value.
How to Decide If You Should Sell
Here’s a quick checklist to guide your decision:
- You have no immediate travel plans within the next 6–12 months.
- The airline has recently announced or hinted at program changes.
- You’re seeing fewer award seats or rising redemption costs.
- A program merger or rebranding is on the horizon.
- Your miles are nearing expiration or are spread across multiple programs.
If you checked even two of these boxes, it’s worth exploring how much your miles could earn you in cash.
Risks and Considerations
While selling airline miles can be a smart move, it’s important to understand the rules. Most airlines prohibit third-party transfers within their terms and conditions, so always use a trusted platform that follows compliance protocols and ensures secure transactions.
Additionally, payouts may vary based on the program, balance amount, and current demand. For large transactions, it’s advisable to consult a tax professional regarding any reportable income from the sale.
How MileageSpot Helps
MileageSpot makes selling your miles simple, transparent, and fast. You can:
- Get an instant quote based on your airline and balance.
- Enjoy secure transfers through verified accounts and encrypted systems.
- Receive quick payouts, often within 24–48 hours of verification.
- Access 24/7 customer support and a helpful FAQ section for guidance.
By selling now, you can lock in your miles’ cash value before another round of program updates or devaluations hits.
Ready to See What Your Miles Are Worth?
Don’t wait for another devaluation to chip away at your hard-earned rewards.
Get a free quote now and turn your miles into money before 2026.
