ATA TravelAwards is evolving. In the past, members earned 500 points per qualifying flight regardless of miles flown and only flights booked online earned points. Now, members will earn more points on longer flights and will earn an automatic double bonus points for online bookings. For example, roundtrip flights taken within the 48 contiguous states will earn 500 points and those booked online will earn an impressive 1,000 points. Roundtrip flights to Mexico or the Caribbean would earn 750 and 1,500 points respectively and flights to Hawaii will earn 1,000 or 2,000 points. Business class flights will earn a 50 percent bonus and one-way flights will earn half the points listed above.

All earned points will expire 24 months after accrual instead of 12. To put the accrual rate into perspective, a member can redeem for a U.S. companion ticket for 3,000 points (as little as three roundtrip flights) or a roundtrip coach ticket for 6,000 points. ATA TravelAwards has also stepped up the earning opportunities with new partners. Seems they are enjoying the “Rapid Rewards” effect.