Introduced in 1988, the Freddie Awards allow members of frequent traveler programs to vote for frequent flyer and hotel loyalty programs completely from their point of view to determine which programs offer them the best value. This is a very special year for the Freddie Awards as we celebrate the 25th Anniversary of these awards that give voice to the frequent traveler worldwide. And as a group, they have a very loud voice—all 2.9 million and more of them. Enjoy reading the following pages. Do you agree with the winners? Did you vote? If not, there is always next year.
The Freddie Awards Come of Age
The Freddie Awards have grown in stature and importance over the last 25 years and are the most prestigious consumer-generated awards in the industry. The awards were inspired by the late Sir Freddie Laker, who in 1978 was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his contribution to commercial aviation and the British economy. Known for his pioneering marketing ideas within the travel industry, Sir Freddie founded Britain’s first all-jet air carrier, Laker Airways Limited. He also founded the “SKYTRAIN” service that revolutionized the airline industry by offering no-reservation, low-cost air service. Mr. Laker passed away Feb. 9, 2006. The Freddie Awards continue to honor his contributions to the industry.
A Note About Voting
Freddie Awards recipients are determined by members of frequent travel programs throughout the world. Members voted online for their favorites in six categories from Jan. 15 to March 31, 2013, in three separate geographical ballots: Americas, Europe / Africa and Middle East / Asia / Oceania.
The categories include: Program of the Year, Best Promotion, Best Redemption Ability, Best Customer Service, Best Elite Program and Best Loyalty Credit Card.
There were 2,951,925 unique visitors during the voting phase from 195 countries/territories. The top five cities voted from included New York, London, Chicago, Bogota and Paris. Voters spent a total of 8,917,109 minutes voting. That’s 148,618 hours which equates to 6,192 days, which is just under 17 years! The busiest voting day was Tuesday, March 19 when nearly 300,000 people voted. The least busiest day was Sunday, March 31 when less than 13,000 voted.
Travelers were asked to rank up to three of their favorite programs in each category. This results in an average ranking (first through third) for each program, normalized to a 10 point scale. In this way, each program is judged by those travelers who have an opinion of its offerings rather than just the program receiving the most votes. A program with fewer voters mentioning it, but the most intense support from those familiar, can have the best average ranking. It is also our policy that in order for any program to be considered for a Freddie Award, it must garner at least two percent of the overall votes cast within a particular category to ensure that the number of ballots cast for a program are significant enough to balance any minor bias. And to ensure accuracy and fairness, the votes are audited with our “one ballot, one traveler” mission in mind.
You will notice that after the names of the programs in the following text, we list the ranking numbers and a percentage. The percentage refers to the number of votes that program received in that particular voting category. Since each voter can select up to three programs, the totals will exceed 100 percent. Winners are listed by category according to geographical ballot in a two-page spread so you can see at a glance the programs that won worldwide. If you look closely at the numbers, you’ll notice that sometimes the difference between a frequent traveler program taking home a Freddie or not can be quite slim. But just like in a horse race, there always has to be a winner, no matter how close the race is.
The Freddie Awards were handed out at a gala event on the evening of April 25 at Gannett/USA Today Corporate Headquarters in McLean, Va. Our congratulations goes out to all of the programs who placed well in this 25th Anniversary of the Freddie Awards.
PROGRAM OF THE YEAR
This award recognizes the airline and hotel group that members feel offered the best overall loyalty program.
[ Americas ]
American AAdvantage
The granddaddy of all frequent flyer programs has done it again, winning Program of the Year in the Americas for a second year in a row. Even after all these years, it still delivers incredible value. Elite members are happy and many would say that the program offers the best domestic award availability of any U.S. airline and some of the most lucrative international award redemptions in the industry.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | American Airlines AAdvantage | 8.38 | 39.57% |
| 2 | Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards | 8.36 | 42.72% |
| 3 | TAM Fidelidade | 8.35 | 3.55% |
| 4 | Avianca/TACA LifeMiles | 8.33 | 5.15% |
| 5 | Air Canada Aeroplan | 7.63 | 3.59% |
| 6 | United Airlines MileagePlus | 7.38 | 27.50% |
| 7 | Delta Air Lines SkyMiles | 7.26 | 27.63% |
| 8 | Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan | 6.85 | 6.47% |
| 9 | Virgin America Elevate | 6.66 | 4.30% |
| 10 | JetBlue TrueBlue | 6.38 | 8.90% |
| 11 | US Airways Dividend Miles | 6.37 | 11.80% |
| 12 | AirTran A+ Rewards | 6.29 | 4.50% |
| 13 | LAN LANPASS | 6.21 | 2.40% |
| 14 | Hawaiian Airlines HawaiianMiles | 6.14 | 3.38% |
| 15 | Frontier Airlines EarlyReturns | 5.94 | 2.51% |
Marriott Rewards
Marriott Rewards has won Program of the Year in the Americas for the sixth consecutive year. This is the 14th time through the years that the program has won this honor in the Americas. Marriott is all about consistency—in the guest experience, customer service and loyalty program—and their members showed their appreciation by turning out to vote.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | Marriott Rewards | 8.60 | 59.37% |
| 2 | Choice Privileges | 7.66 | 11.77% |
| 3 | IHG Priority Club Rewards | 7.44 | 21.38% |
| 4 | Hilton HHonors | 7.28 | 39.63% |
| 5 | Club Carlson | 7.19 | 3.04% |
| 6 | Starwood Preferred Guest | 7.16 | 18.70% |
| 7 | Hyatt Gold Passport | 6.78 | 17.67% |
| 8 | Fairmont President’s Club | 6.62 | 2.71% |
| 9 | Best Western Rewards | 6.51 | 11.35% |
| 10 | Ritz-Carlton Rewards | 6.44 | 5.93% |
| 11 | Wyndham Rewards | 6.12 | 8.41% |
[ Europe / Africa ]
Air France / KLM Flying Blue
With an impressive and commanding value vote and percentage of voters, Air France / KLM Flying Blue takes the Program of the Year Freddie Award. While KLM has a few Freddies under its belt from its Flying Dutchman days, this is the first time Flying Blue has been awarded a Freddie Award. As the frequent flyer program of Air France, KLM, Kenya Airways, TAROM and Air Europa, the program has an extensive network of destinations in Europe.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | Air France / KLM Flying Blue | 8.89 | 53.44% |
| 2 | Virgin Atlantic Flying Club | 8.254 | 17.22% |
| 3 | SAS EuroBonus | 8.250 | 14.76% |
| 4 | Lufthansa Miles & More | 7.48 | 39.17% |
| 5 | Alitalia MilleMiglia | 7.18 | 8.32% |
| 6 | Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles | 6.98 | 9.26% |
| 7 | British Airways Executive Club | 6.31 | 26.40% |
| 8 | Aeroflot Bonus | 6.17 | 2.02% |
| 9 | TAP Victoria | 6.03 | 2.03% |
| 10 | Iberia Plus | 5.97 | 5.00% |
| 11 | Finnair Plus | 5.73 | 4.06% |
| 12 | airberlin topbonus | 5.70 | 5.54% |
| 13 | South African Airways Voyager | 5.59 | 3.46% |
| 14 | bmi Diamond Club | 5.42 | 2.28% |
Le Club Accorhotels
Le Club Accorhotels first time Program of the Year win will probably surprise many who aren’t loyal members of the program. Since 2001, Starwood and Marriott have been the only two programs to win the Program of the Year in Europe / Africa. Le Club members gave high marks to the multi-brand loyalty program of Sofitel, Pullman, MGallery, Novotel, Suite Novotel, Mercure, ibis, ibis Styles, Adagio and Thalassa sea & spa hotels.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | Le Club Accorhotels | 8.02 | 21.80% |
| 2 | IHG Priority Club Rewards | 7.86 | 23.51% |
| 3 | Starwood Preferred Guest | 7.43 | 17.46% |
| 4 | Club Carlson | 7.38 | 9.96% |
| 5 | Marriott Rewards | 7.37 | 35.61% |
| 6 | Hilton HHonors | 7.23 | 37.50% |
| 7 | Hyatt Gold Passport | 7.08 | 20.93% |
| 8 | Best Western Rewards | 7.03 | 23.26% |
| 9 | Fairmont Presidents Club | 6.76 | 3.72% |
| 10 | Choice Privileges | 6.75 | 5.31% |
| 11 | Sol Melia MAS Rewards | 6.73 | 5.32% |
| 12 | VOILÀ Hotel Rewards | 6.69 | 3.03% |
| 13 | NH World | 6.64 | 6.63% |
| 14 | Award World / Steigenberger | 6.46 | 2.84% |
| 15 | Macdonald Hotels The Club | 6.21 | 2.19% |
| 16 | Wyndham Rewards | 6.08 | 3.85% |
[ Middle East / Asia / Oceania ]
Virgin Australia Velocity
While this is the first time Virgin Australia Velocity has won a Freddie for Program of the Year, the program won a Freddie in this category in 2009 under its former name, Virgin Blue Velocity. The program is known for its ease of award redemption, which goes straight to the heart of a frequent traveler. Velocity offers last seat availability for additional points and members can pay with a combination of points and cash for flight awards. Award sales and bonus offers are also frequently offered to keep members engaged in the program.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | Virgin Australia Velocity | 8.76 | 20.83% |
| 2 | Jet Airways JetPrivilege | 8.74 | 16.60% |
| 3 | Emirates Skywards | 8.46 | 38.86% |
| 4 | Qatar Airways Privilege Club | 7.73 | 14.75% |
| 5 | All Nippon Airways Mileage Club | 7.58 | 4.19% |
| 6 | Etihad Guest | 7.28 | 14.08% |
| 7 | Air China PhoenixMiles | 7.270 | 2.55% |
| 8 | Gulf Air Falconflyer | 7.268 | 3.17% |
| 9 | JAL Mileage Bank | 7.24 | 4.07% |
| 10 | China Southern Airlines Sky Pearl Club | 7.05 | 2.81% |
| 11 | Asiana Airlines Asiana Club | 7.02 | 2.36% |
| 12 | Korean Air SKYPASS | 6.97 | 2.79% |
| 13 | Qantas Frequent Flyer | 6.89 | 14.92% |
| 14 | Cathay Pacific Asia Miles | 6.68 | 11.18% |
| 15 | Singapore Airlines Krisflyer | 6.51 | 20.83% |
| 16 | Air India Flying Returns | 6.30 | 4.82% |
| 17 | Thai Airways Royal Orchid Plus | 6.06 | 8.61% |
| 18 | Air New Zealand Airpoints | 6.04 | 5.56% |
| 19 | Kingfisher Airlines King Club | 5.59 | 2.30% |
IHG Priority Club Rewards
IHG Priority Club Rewards has inched past last year’s winner, Taj InnerCircle, to claim Program of the Year for Middle East / Asia / Oceania. Priority Club Rewards clearly appealed to its membership base with solid, uncomplicated promotions, effective marketing and quality service. PointBreaks are a perennial crowd pleaser that give members the opportunity to redeem points for hotel stays for only 5,000 points per night.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | IHG Priority Club Rewards | 7.67 | 25.74% |
| 2 | Taj Hotels & Resorts InnerCircle | 7.64 | 16.58% |
| 3 | Marriott Rewards | 7.55 | 36.65% |
| 4 | Hyatt Gold Passport | 7.53 | 29.93% |
| 5 | Club ITC | 7.42 | 7.34% |
| 6 | Starwood Preferred Guest | 7.31 | 24.62% |
| 7 | Le Club Accorhotels | 7.30 | 10.94% |
| 8 | Club Carlson | 7.21 | 4.47% |
| 9 | Shangri-La Golden Circle | 7.01 | 16.06% |
| 10 | Best Western Rewards | 6.86 | 11.77% |
| 11 | Hilton HHonors | 6.72 | 26.17% |
| 12 | Fairmont President’s Club | 6.61 | 3.29% |
| 13 | Wyndham Rewards | 6.43 | 3.65% |
| 14 | Choice Privileges | 6.39 | 3.69% |
BEST PROMOTION
Airlines and hotel groups offer a variety of special redemption and bonus earning opportunities to their loyalty program members throughout the year. This award recognizes the promotion that members feel was most valuable to them.
[ Americas ]
American AAdvantage
American AAdvantage offered double elite-qualifying miles and points on all American Airlines, American Eagle and American Connection flights between Nov. 1 and Dec. 31, 2012. Elite members also earned double award miles on all travel while non-elites could earn double miles on travel between Nov. 16 and Nov. 26, 2012. This was a much appreciated boost for members who still needed to log some miles before the end of the elite-qualifying year.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | American Airlines AAdvantage Thank You Promotion | 8.47 | 16.09% |
| 2 | TAM Fidelidade Promotional Redemptions | 8.46 | 5.46% |
| 3 | AviancaTACA LifeMiles Mileage Purchase 2×1 | 8.42 | 7.97% |
| 4 | Southwest Rapid Rewards Partnerpalooza | 8.17 | 51.87% |
| 5 | Air Canada Aeroplan Collect Miles at Airports Around the World | 7.34 | 6.40% |
| 6 | United MileagePlus Mile Up | 7.25 | 41.89% |
| 7 | Delta SkyMiles Across the Pond and Back for a Bonus | 6.74 | 41.77% |
| 8 | Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan Pick Your Beach Paradise Fall Award Sale | 6.36 | 10.43% |
| 9 | JetBlue TrueBlue JetBlue Gives | 6.16 | 16.47% |
| 10 | Virgin America Elevate Virgin America: Mission Galactic | 6.14 | 7.08% |
| 11 | US Airways Dividend Miles Star Alliance Promotion | 6.09 | 23.54% |
| 12 | Aeromexico Club Premier Club Premier Grand Raffle | 5.98 | 2.52% |
Marriott Rewards
Marriott Rewards has been offering its MegaBonus for several years running and there is no end in sight for this popular promotion. In an ever-changing industry, members have grown to expect the trustworthy MegaBonus to return year after year and continue to rate this bonus as best in class.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | Marriott Rewards MegaBonus | 8.15 | 61.08% |
| 2 | Choice Privileges Summer 2012 Two Stays Pays | 7.49 | 15.14% |
| 3 | Club Carlson Stay One Get One / Big Night Giveaway | 7.33 | 5.40% |
| 4 | Priority Club Rewards Double Points or Double Miles | 7.04 | 27.39% |
| 5 | Hilton HHonors Double Your HHonors | 7.02 | 48.59% |
| 6 | Starwood Preferred Guest Redeem & Relax | 7.00 | 23.93% |
| 7 | Hyatt Gold Passport Imagine the Possibilities with Up to 65,000 Bonus Points | 6.63 | 22.77% |
| 8 | Best Western Rewards Be a Travel Hero | 6.49 | 15.31% |
| 9 | Wyndham Rewards Summer is 4x Sweeter | 5.88 | 11.42% |
[ Europe / Africa ]
Air France / KLM Flying Blue
For a limited time, Air France / KLM Flying Blue offered a discount of 25 percent on Promo Awards to all European destinations served by both airlines. Members who booked an eligible flight between Oct. 30 and Nov. 29, 2012 for travel between Nov. 1, 2012 and March 26, 2013 could receive a 25 percent discount.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | Air France / KLM Flying Blue ‘All-Europe’ Promo Awards for 25 % Less Award Miles | 8.47 | 58.58% |
| 2 | SAS EuroBonus SAS 20th Anniversary Campaign | 7.63 | 18.69% |
| 3 | Virgin Atlantic Flying Club Rewards Don’t Get Better Than This | 7.39 | 19.27% |
| 4 | Alitalia MilleMiglia MultiBonus Promotion | 7.17 | 14.37% |
| 5 | Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles Miles as Cash | 7.10 | 16.20% |
| 6 | Lufthansa Miles & More myChoice | 7.03 | 50.44% |
| 7 | Air Baltic BalticMiles We Love to Give You More | 6.94 | 4.01% |
| 8 | Ukraine International Panorama Club Award Tickets for Fewer Miles | 6.06 | 2.21% |
| 9 | British Airways Executive Club Earn Unlimited Bonus Avios for a Limited Time | 6.01 | 35.75% |
| 10 | airberlin topbonus Additional Miles with a Local Touch | 5.45 | 8.74% |
| 11 | Czech Airlines OK Plus OK Plus Citi Promotion | 5.23 | 3.09% |
Le Club Accorhotels
Le Club Accorhotels reached out to its 10 million members with a Facebook game. Members who matched Le Club Accorhotels properties to their location on a map earned 50 points per correct answer. Members who answered all 10 questions correctly were entered into a lottery to win up to a million points.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | Le Club Accorhotels Discovery Tour Facebook Game | 7.67 | 20.42% |
| 2 | IHG Priority Club Rewards Double Points or Double Miles | 7.55 | 30.31% |
| 3 | Club Carlson Stay One Get One / Big Night Giveaway | 7.46 | 15.14% |
| 4 | Starwood Preferred Guest Redeem & Relax | 7.26 | 21.05% |
| 5 | Marriott Rewards MegaBonus | 7.12 | 39.51% |
| 6 | Hilton HHonors Double Your HHonors | 7.09 | 43.10% |
| 7 | Hyatt Gold Passport Imagine the Possibilities with Up to 65,000 Bonus Points | 6.91 | 23.81% |
| 8 | Best Western Rewards Stay Three Times | 6.90 | 28.27% |
| 9 | Choice Privileges Stay Two Times, Get a Free Night | 6.52 | 9.83% |
| 10 | VOILÀ Hotel Rewards Extra Nights, Extra Points | 6.25 | 3.91% |
| 11 | Wyndham Rewards Summer is 4x Sweeter | 5.92 | 5.10% |
[ Middle East / Asia / Oceania ]
Jet Airways JetPrivilege
When Jet Airways JetPrivilege offered a 20 percent discount on award tickets booked online for flights within India, they gave members nearly an entire year to take advantage of the offer. From March 25, 2012 until March 31, 2013, members could redeem award tickets on Jet Airways and JetKonnect in economy and Premiere class for 20 percent fewer miles on domestic routes.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | Jet Airways JetPrivilege 20% Discount on JPMiles Redeemed Online at JetAirways.com | 8.12 | 21.48% |
| 2 | Virgin Australia Velocity The Double Whammy – Elite Status AND Free International Flight | 8.05 | 23.53% |
| 3 | El Al Matmid Club Millionth Member Transfer Bonus | 7.85 | 2.06% |
| 4 | Emirates Skywards Inspirational Reward Offerings | 7.68 | 53.86% |
| 5 | Qatar Airways Privilege Club Easy Deals | 7.26 | 29.09% |
| 6 | Etihad Guest PointsPay | 7.06 | 25.28% |
| 7 | JAL Mileage Bank Let’s Encourage Tohoku with Mile Donation Project | 6.91 | 6.75% |
| 8 | China Southern Airlines Sky Pearl Club Speedy Upgrade Promotion | 6.79 | 6.33% |
| 9 | Gulf Air Falconflyer Enroll, Fly and Win | 6.71 | 7.30% |
| 10 | Singapore Airlines Krisflyer Your Ticket Could Take You to Bali, Koh Samui or Even Maldives | 6.53 | 36.43% |
| 11 | Thai Airways Royal Orchid Plus Redeem Your Points for 25% Discount on All Thai Flights | 5.74 | 18.23% |
Taj Hotels & Resorts InnerCircle
Taj InnerCircle members could earn up to 700 bonus points when booking the Surprises rate at Taj locations worldwide. Members earned 500 bonus points for the first four nights, plus up to an additional 200 bonus points at Luxury hotels.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | Taj Hotels & Resorts InnerCircle Up to 700 Bonus Points in Surprises | 7.67 | 15.76% |
| 2 | IHG Priority Club Rewards Double Points or Double Miles | 7.46 | 29.18% |
| 3 | Hyatt Gold Passport Imagine the Possibilities with Up to 65,000 Bonus Points | 7.38 | 33.11% |
| 4 | Starwood Preferred Guest Redeem & Relax | 7.29 | 27.38% |
| 5 | Marriott Rewards MegaBonus | 7.28 | 37.79% |
| 6 | Club Carlson Stay One Get One / Big Night Giveaway | 7.10 | 7.43% |
| 7 | Le Club Accorhotels Discovery Tour Facebook Game | 7.00 | 10.05% |
| 8 | Club ITC 3 Stays or Spends of Rs. 60,000 Gets You a Free Night & More | 6.93 | 8.70% |
| 9 | Shangri-La Golden Circle Double Indulgence Summer Promotion | 6.83 | 17.49% |
| 10 | Best Western Rewards Unlimited Rewards | 6.73 | 14.02% |
| 11 | Hilton HHonors Double Your HHonors | 6.56 | 29.27% |
| 12 | Choice Privileges Win a Car Sweepstakes | 6.50 | 5.36% |
| 13 | Wyndham Rewards Summer is 4x Sweet | 6.19 | 3.94% |
BEST REDEMPTION ABILITY
Redeeming miles or points can sometimes be a challenge. This award recognizes the airline and hotel loyalty program that makes awards easily available, makes the redemption process smooth and provides the greatest value for members.
[ Americas ]
AviancaTACA LifeMiles
Avianca TACA LifeMiles entry into the Star Alliance in 2012 has put this program on the map for a worldwide audience. This is LifeMiles first Freddie Award win as more members get to know and appreciate the program. LifeMiles has frequent 100 percent bonus offers on purchased miles and now members can use those miles for flights on Star Alliance carriers. LifeMiles members also have the flexibility to adjust the combination of miles and money. When booking an award ticket online, members can decrease the mileage amount in increments of 1,000 miles and pay more in cash. LifeMiles also allows one-way award redemptions and there are no fuel surcharges.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | AviancaTACA LifeMiles | 8.91 | 6.16% |
| 2 | TAM Fidelidade | 8.78 | 3.01% |
| 3 | Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards | 8.39 | 44.38% |
| 4 | American Airlines AAdvantage | 8.01 | 40.94% |
| 5 | Air Canada Aeroplan | 7.58 | 4.51% |
| 6 | United Airlines MileagePlus | 7.18 | 28.34% |
| 7 | Delta Air Lines SkyMiles | 6.97 | 32.83% |
| 8 | Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan | 6.69 | 7.54% |
| 9 | Virgin America Elevate | 6.353 | 3.62% |
| 10 | AirTran A+ Rewards | 6.347 | 5.63% |
| 11 | JetBlue TrueBlue | 6.24 | 10.79% |
| 12 | US Airways Dividend Miles | 6.18 | 13.05% |
| 13 | LAN LANPASS | 6.17 | 3.10% |
| 14 | Hawaiian Airlines HawaiianMiles | 6.14 | 3.76% |
| 15 | Frontier Airlines EarlyReturns | 6.01 | 3.14% |
Marriott Rewards
Marriott Rewards wins in this all-important category for a second year in a row. Marriott has plenty of properties, in locations where their members want to stay, and at different levels of service. Members report that redeeming points for Travel Packages continues to offer a great value. When redeeming for a vacation package of seven nights or longer, points can be redeemed for hotel nights and flight miles with several participating airlines.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | Marriott Rewards | 8.39 | 62.52% |
| 2 | Choice Privileges | 7.49 | 13.53% |
| 3 | IHG Priority Club Rewards | 7.31 | 25.68% |
| 4 | Hilton HHonors | 7.13 | 45.49% |
| 5 | Club Carlson | 6.90 | 3.31% |
| 6 | Starwood Preferred Guest | 6.89 | 21.13% |
| 7 | Hyatt Gold Passport | 6.53 | 19.90% |
| 8 | Best Western Rewards | 6.47 | 14.20% |
| 9 | Wyndham Rewards | 6.00 | 10.19% |
[ Europe / Africa ]
Air France / KLM Flying Blue
This is a first time win for Air France / KLM Flying Blue in the Best Redemption Ability category. Award sales are a sure way to win the heart of many a frequent flyer and Flying Blue offers up to 50 percent off promo flight awards every couple of months. Hotel stays, car rentals, extra baggage allowance and in-flight meals are just a few of the other types of awards available to members.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | Air France / KLM Flying Blue | 8.77 | 55.29% |
| 2 | SAS EuroBonus | 8.10 | 15.93% |
| 3 | Virgin Atlantic Flying Club | 7.99 | 16.86% |
| 4 | Lufthansa Miles & More | 7.37 | 42.13% |
| 5 | Aegean Miles&Bonus | 6.98 | 2.06% |
| 6 | Alitalia MilleMiglia | 6.95 | 9.29% |
| 7 | Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles | 6.76 | 9.34% |
| 8 | British Airways Executive Club | 6.24 | 28.61% |
| 9 | Aeroflot Bonus | 6.12 | 2.23% |
| 10 | TAP Victoria | 6.09 | 2.16% |
| 11 | Iberia Plus | 6.03 | 5.98% |
| 12 | Finnair Plus | 5.80 | 4.27% |
| 13 | South African Airways Voyager | 5.705 | 3.83% |
| 14 | airberlin topbonus | 5.697 | 6.53% |
| 15 | bmi Diamond Club | 5.54 | 2.43% |
Starwood Preferred Guest
Starwood Preferred Guest is no stranger to winning this category. Starwood’s nine-year winning streak was interrupted by Hilton, Marriott and IHG from 2009 to 2011, but the program resumed its first place spot last year and continues the trend this year. Starwood pioneered making all standard rooms available for points, and other hotel programs have followed their lead.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | Starwood Preferred Guest | 7.83 | 15.76% |
| 2 | IHG Priority Club Rewards | 7.76 | 27.38% |
| 3 | Le Club Accorhotels | 7.63 | 25.67% |
| 4 | Marriott Rewards | 7.23 | 39.11% |
| 5 | Club Carlson | 7.13 | 10.80% |
| 6 | Hilton HHonors | 7.12 | 41.32% |
| 7 | Best Western Rewards | 6.98 | 27.87% |
| 8 | Hyatt Gold Passport | 6.88 | 21.87% |
| 9 | Sol Melia MAS Rewards | 6.74 | 5.55% |
| 10 | Choice Privileges | 6.58 | 6.92% |
| 11 | VOILÀ Hotel Rewards | 6.53 | 3.42% |
| 12 | Award World / Steigenberger | 6.14 | 2.67% |
| 13 | Wyndham Rewards | 6.01 | 4.18% |
[ Middle East / Asia / Oceania ]
Virgin Australia Velocity
This is the fifth Best Redemption Ability Freddie Award win for Velocity. Velocity members who plan in advance can get award flights for fewer points and they also have the option of using points for any available flight—including peak holiday travel times when the number of points is based on the cost of the fare. We saw Virgin America, Virgin Atlantic Airways and Virgin Australia finally become full earning and redeeming partners in 2012, giving Velocity members the ability redeem miles across the network of Virgin carriers.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | Virgin Australia Velocity | 8.66 | 20.24% |
| 2 | Jet Airways JetPrivilege | 8.63 | 18.67% |
| 3 | Emirates Skywards | 8.32 | 39.45% |
| 4 | All Nippon Airways Mileage Club | 7.45 | 4.18% |
| 5 | Air China PhoenixMiles | 7.42 | 3.19% |
| 6 | Qatar Airways Privilege Club | 7.39 | 14.92% |
| 7 | China Southern Airlines Sky Pearl Club | 7.13 | 3.53% |
| 8 | Korean Air SKYPASS | 7.124 | 3.10% |
| 9 | Etihad Guest | 7.122 | 13.94% |
| 10 | Gulf Air Falconflyer | 7.07 | 3.38% |
| 11 | JAL Mileage Bank | 7.03 | 4.24% |
| 12 | Qantas Frequent Flyer | 6.95 | 16.15% |
| 13 | Asiana Airlines Asiana Club | 6.83 | 2.65% |
| 14 | Cathay Pacific Asia Miles | 6.59 | 12.40% |
| 15 | Saudi Arabian Airlines Alfursan | 6.43 | 2.01% |
| 16 | Singapore Airlines Krisflyer | 6.40 | 22.20% |
| 17 | Air India Flying Returns | 6.32 | 5.89% |
| 18 | Thai Airways Royal Orchid Plus | 6.12 | 9.51% |
| 19 | Air New Zealand Airpoints | 5.96 | 5.93% |
| 20 | Kingfisher Airlines King Club | 5.76 | 2.87% |
Hyatt Gold Passport
Hyatt Gold Passport nudges past Taj Hotels & Resorts InnerCircle to take the Freddie for Best Redemption Ability in Middle East /Asia /Oceania. This is the first time Hyatt Gold Passport has won for Best Redemption Ability in any geographical region. Hyatt’s portfolio includes truly aspirational properties and when it comes time to redeem your points, there are no unpleasant surprises. Hyatt Gold Passport has a reputation for keeping members well-informed about changes to award categories. When the program announced in December 2012 that several hotels would be changing categories, the program gave members six weeks advance notice.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | Hyatt Gold Passport | 7.87 | 27.17% |
| 2 | Taj Hotels & Resorts InnerCircle | 7.84 | 16.30% |
| 3 | IHG Priority Club Rewards | 7.66 | 27.83% |
| 4 | Marriott Rewards | 7.50 | 38.33% |
| 5 | Club ITC | 7.33 | 7.98% |
| 6 | Le Club Accorhotels | 7.20 | 10.80% |
| 7 | Starwood Preferred Guest | 7.17 | 25.33% |
| 8 | Club Carlson | 7.00 | 4.74% |
| 9 | Shangri-La Golden Circle | 6.90 | 15.61% |
| 10 | Best Western Rewards | 6.87 | 13.34% |
| 11 | Hilton HHonors | 6.65 | 27.07% |
| 12 | Choice Privileges | 6.46 | 4.40% |
| 13 | Wyndham Rewards | 6.36 | 3.69% |
BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE
This award recognizes the airline and hotel program with the most helpful customer service agents and policies, the ones that offer the best interactions to help give you a good experience and to get you back on track when things go wrong.
[ Americas ]
Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards
Southwest Rapid Rewards has always placed a high priority on providing stellar customer service and going the extra mile for customers. Members can call customer service 24/7 and unlike many programs, Rapid Rewards does not charge a phone booking fee to make award flight reservations over the phone.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards | 8.66 | 44.10% |
| 2 | AviancaTACA LifeMiles | 8.61 | 4.80% |
| 3 | TAM Fidelidade | 8.33 | 3.55% |
| 4 | American Airlines AAdvantage | 7.96 | 39.50% |
| 5 | Air Canada Aeroplan | 7.24 | 3.99% |
| 6 | Delta Air Lines SkyMiles | 7.07 | 29.36% |
| 7 | Virgin America Elevate | 7.00 | 5.65% |
| 8 | United Airlines MileagePlus | 6.99 | 27.54% |
| 9 | Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan | 6.77 | 7.68% |
| 10 | JetBlue TrueBlue | 6.66 | 11.80% |
| 11 | LAN LANPASS | 6.49 | 2.73% |
| 12 | Hawaiian Airlines HawaiianMiles | 6.43 | 4.68% |
| 13 | AirTran A+ Rewards | 6.27 | 5.24% |
| 14 | US Airways Dividend Miles | 6.14 | 12.91% |
| 15 | Frontier Airlines EarlyReturns | 6.12 | 3.32% |
Marriott Rewards
When it comes to providing excellent customer service, Marriott Rewards is tough to beat. This is Marriott Rewards’ seventh consecutive win for Best Customer Service. All the perks in the world are worth less than a consistent and noticeable appreciation for the customer. Marriott Rewards continues to offer a responsive customer service experience.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | Marriott Rewards | 8.39 | 60.49% |
| 2 | Choice Privileges | 7.46 | 11.93% |
| 3 | Kimpton InTouch | 7.32 | 2.10% |
| 4 | IHG Priority Club Rewards | 7.24 | 22.11% |
| 5 | Hilton HHonors | 7.16 | 42.61% |
| 6 | Club Carlson | 7.00 | 3.00% |
| 7 | Starwood Preferred Guest | 6.97 | 19.89% |
| 8 | Ritz-Carlton Rewards | 6.92 | 8.89% |
| 9 | Hyatt Gold Passport | 6.75 | 19.48% |
| 10 | Fairmont President’s Club | 6.73 | 3.14% |
| 11 | Omni Select Guest | 6.50 | 2.38% |
| 12 | Best Western Rewards | 6.45 | 12.60% |
| 13 | Wyndham Rewards | 6.07 | 9.61% |
[ Europe / Africa ]
SAS EuroBonus
This is the third time SAS EuroBonus has won a Freddie Award for Best Customer Service in Europe / Africa. EuroBonus reaches out to its members on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube and is readily available on the phone and via email. Members are satisfied with how EuroBonus responds to their needs and gives the program high marks for customer service.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | SAS EuroBonus | 8.62 | 12.84% |
| 2 | Air France / KLM Flying Blue | 8.58 | 56.54% |
| 3 | Virgin Atlantic Flying Club | 8.17 | 17.71% |
| 4 | Lufthansa Miles & More | 7.38 | 41.25% |
| 5 | Alitalia MilleMiglia | 7.00 | 8.48% |
| 6 | Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles | 6.95 | 10.24% |
| 7 | British Airways Executive Club | 6.34 | 28.44% |
| 8 | TAP Victoria | 6.15 | 2.24% |
| 9 | Aeroflot Bonus | 6.13 | 2.08% |
| 10 | Aer Lingus Gold Circle Club | 6.04 | 2.02% |
| 11 | Finnair Plus | 5.83 | 4.68% |
| 12 | Iberia Plus | 5.81 | 5.28% |
| 13 | airberlin topbonus | 5.707 | 6.01% |
| 14 | South African Airways Voyager | 5.706 | 4.12% |
| 15 | bmi Diamond Club | 5.42 | 2.33% |
IHG Priority Club Rewards
Priority Club Rewards was not overlooked this year. The program frequently ranks in the top three but has not won a Freddie Award for Best Customer Service in the international arena since 2000. The program has a solid history of treating members well and members show their appreciation of Priority Club Rewards with the winning vote this year.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | IHG Priority Club Rewards | 7.96 | 22.31% |
| 2 | Le Club Accorhotels | 7.85 | 21.73% |
| 3 | Starwood Preferred Guest | 7.35 | 18.14% |
| 4 | Marriott Rewards | 7.32 | 37.34% |
| 5 | Hilton HHonors | 7.25 | 39.26% |
| 6 | Club Carlson | 7.24 | 10.09% |
| 7 | Hyatt Gold Passport | 7.09 | 22.06% |
| 8 | Best Western Rewards | 6.93 | 24.54% |
| 9 | Fairmont President’s Club | 6.768 | 3.81% |
| 10 | Sol Melia MAS Rewards | 6.765 | 5.46% |
| 11 | Choice Privileges | 6.67 | 5.60% |
| 12 | NH World | 6.65 | 6.82% |
| 13 | VOILÀ Hotel Rewards | 6.54 | 2.90% |
| 14 | Award World / Steigenberger | 6.37 | 2.71% |
| 15 | Macdonald Hotels The Club | 6.24 | 2.23% |
| 16 | Wyndham Rewards | 6.09 | 4.02% |
[ Middle East / Asia / Oceania ]
Emirates Skywards
Emirates Skywards won a Best Customer Service Freddie Award in 2011 and returns to a first place finish again in 2013. The program just barely wins with only a .001 point keeping it ahead of the second place contender, Virgin Australia Velocity. And another program not shown here was also in the running. El Al would have won with their 8.96 value but they only got 1.22 percent of the votes. With 39.67 percent of votes, Emirates Skywards soars to the top with its reputation for clear communication and prompt and effective response to customer concerns.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | Emirates Skywards | 8.478 | 39.67% |
| 2 | Virgin Australia Velocity | 8.477 | 20.05% |
| 3 | Jet Airways JetPrivilege | 8.38 | 17.83% |
| 4 | Qatar Airways Privilege Club | 7.59 | 15.43% |
| 5 | All Nippon Airways Mileage Club | 7.41 | 4.29% |
| 6 | Air China PhoenixMiles | 7.19 | 2.38% |
| 7 | Etihad Guest | 7.14 | 14.33% |
| 8 | Korean Air SKYPASS | 7.09 | 3.12% |
| 9 | Gulf Air Falconflyer | 7.06 | 3.24% |
| 10 | JAL Mileage Bank | 7.00 | 4.25% |
| 11 | Asiana Airlines Asiana Club | 6.86 | 2.65% |
| 12 | Singapore Airlines Krisflyer | 6.84 | 25.18% |
| 13 | China Southern Airlines Sky Pearl Club | 6.72 | 2.72% |
| 14 | Qantas Frequent Flyer | 6.62 | 13.92% |
| 15 | Cathay Pacific Asia Miles | 6.52 | 12.34% |
| 16 | Air India Flying Returns | 6.20 | 4.90% |
| 17 | Thai Airways Royal Orchid Plus | 6.10 | 10.33% |
| 18 | Air New Zealand Airpoints | 6.08 | 5.95% |
| 19 | Kingfisher Airlines King Club | 5.93 | 2.80% |
Hyatt Gold Passport
We don’t know how many members saw Hyatt Gold Passport Vice President Jeff Zidell’s adventures of Jeff and Freddie blog post, which pictured the pair as they posed at various Hyatt locations around Chicago, but it was a fun and creative way to engage members. Customer service isn’t just about solving problems. Spreading cheer and good humor can also be a way to interact with customers. That being said, members say the program provides excellent customer service.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | Hyatt Gold Passport | 7.74 | 27.90% |
| 2 | Taj Hotels & Resorts InnerCircle | 7.72 | 18.37% |
| 3 | IHG Priority Club Rewards | 7.57 | 25.51% |
| 4 | Marriott Rewards | 7.49 | 37.74% |
| 5 | Club ITC | 7.28 | 7.93% |
| 6 | Le Club Accorhotels | 7.18 | 10.42% |
| 7 | Starwood Preferred Guest | 7.15 | 24.70% |
| 8 | Shangri-La Golden Circle | 7.12 | 17.82% |
| 9 | Club Carlson | 6.96 | 4.52% |
| 10 | Best Western Rewards | 6.80 | 12.07% |
| 11 | Hilton HHonors | 6.70 | 26.66% |
| 12 | Fairmont President’s Club | 6.59 | 3.37% |
| 13 | Choice Privileges | 6.42 | 3.80% |
| 14 | Wyndham Rewards | 6.35 | 3.59% |
BEST ELITE PROGRAM
Airline and hotel loyalty programs offer special amenities to their most loyal customers. This award recognizes the program that has provided the best overall benefit package to their members—the entire elite program, not specific levels.
[ Americas ]
American AAdvantage
Elite members are happy with American AAdvantage and the program wins Best Elite Program in the Americas for the second consecutive year, just squeezing past TAM Fidelidade. Top-tier elites get eight confirmed upgrades valid from any fare, something unmatched by their competitors, and unlimited complimentary upgrades on domestic flights. Platinum members receive a 100 percent flight bonus and Executive Platinum elite members who don’t get upgraded are recognized with a complimentary drink and buy-on-board snack. Members report that the elite help desk also provides exemplary customer service.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | American Airlines AAdvantage | 8.39 | 41.34% |
| 2 | TAM Fidelidade | 8.38 | 3.82% |
| 3 | Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards | 8.32 | 37.64% |
| 4 | AviancaTACA LifeMiles | 8.20 | 5.84% |
| 5 | Air Canada Aeroplan | 7.71 | 4.09% |
| 6 | United Airlines MileagePlus | 7.33 | 30.57% |
| 7 | Delta Air Lines SkyMiles | 7.25 | 31.01% |
| 8 | Virgin America Elevate | 6.74 | 5.35% |
| 9 | Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan | 6.69 | 7.01% |
| 10 | US Airways Dividend Miles | 6.32 | 13.37% |
| 11 | AirTran A+ Rewards | 6.30 | 4.83% |
| 12 | LAN LANPASS | 6.20 | 2.71% |
| 13 | JetBlue TrueBlue | 6.19 | 9.22% |
| 14 | Hawaiian Airlines HawaiianMiles | 6.18 | 3.84% |
| 15 | Frontier Airlines EarlyReturns | 5.93 | 2.71% |
Hyatt Gold Passport
The crown returns to Hyatt Gold Passport from last year’s winner, Marriott Rewards. Four confirmed suite upgrades at booking and complimentary breakfast for Diamond members are two of the most valued Gold Passport elite benefits. Add in excellent customer service, free Internet for all elite members and you have a winning elite program.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | Hyatt Gold Passport | 8.10 | 21.85% |
| 2 | Marriott Rewards | 8.08 | 59.66% |
| 3 | Kimpton InTouch | 7.95 | 2.05% |
| 4 | Choice Privileges | 7.48 | 10.96% |
| 5 | IHG Priority Club Rewards | 7.28 | 21.63% |
| 6 | Hilton HHonors | 7.23 | 42.41% |
| 7 | Starwood Preferred Guest | 7.08 | 20.40% |
| 8 | Club Carlson | 6.892 | 3.02% |
| 9 | Fairmont President’s Club | 6.886 | 3.57% |
| 10 | Omni Select Guest | 6.41 | 2.51% |
| 11 | Best Western Rewards | 6.40 | 11.28% |
| 12 | Wyndham Rewards | 6.06 | 9.41% |
[ Europe / Africa ]
Air France / KLM Flying Blue
New Freddie darling Flying Blue wins again, this time for Best Elite Level. Flying Blue elites receive an additional 50, 75 and 100 percent earning bonus for Silver, Gold and Platinum, respectively. Elite members also have access to additional award inventory for more miles. Flying Blue introduced elite rollover miles last year so all Level miles (elite-qualifying miles) earned beyond the status threshold will be rolled over to the following year.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | Air France / KLM Flying Blue | 8.84 | 55.64% |
| 2 | Virgin Atlantic Flying Club | 8.08 | 17.10% |
| 3 | SAS EuroBonus | 7.99 | 14.69% |
| 4 | Lufthansa Miles & More | 7.41 | 41.06% |
| 5 | Alitalia MilleMiglia | 6.96 | 8.44% |
| 6 | Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles | 6.89 | 9.39% |
| 7 | British Airways Executive Club | 6.33 | 29.02% |
| 8 | TAP Victoria | 6.01 | 2.11% |
| 9 | Iberia Plus | 5.91 | 5.45% |
| 10 | Finnair Plus | 5.70 | 4.15% |
| 11 | South African Airways Voyager | 5.60 | 3.70% |
| 12 | airberlin topbonus | 5.60 | 5.54% |
| 13 | bmi Diamond Club | 5.40 | 2.38% |
Starwood Preferred Guest
Starwood is once again singled out for their excellent elite program. Starwood introduced new elite benefits last year, including a choice of welcome gifts such as bonus points, in-room Internet or complimentary drink for Gold and Platinum or free breakfast for Platinum. Platinum members who stay 50 nights a year also receive 10 suite night awards that are confirmable five nights prior to arrival. And Platinum members who stay 75 nights can check in at any time, 24 hours a day. With an annual stay of 100 nights, Platinum members can enjoy the services of a personal ambassador.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | Starwood Preferred Guest | 7.86 | 15.57% |
| 2 | Le Club Accorhotels | 7.84 | 22.77% |
| 3 | IHG Priority Club Rewards | 7.75 | 24.72% |
| 4 | Marriott Rewards | 7.28 | 37.83% |
| 5 | Hilton HHonors | 7.220 | 40.63% |
| 6 | Club Carlson | 7.215 | 10.56% |
| 7 | Hyatt Gold Passport | 7.04 | 22.99% |
| 8 | Best Western Rewards | 6.91 | 24.50% |
| 9 | Sol Melia MAS Rewards | 6.86 | 5.90% |
| 10 | Fairmont President’s Club | 6.81 | 4.24% |
| 11 | Choice Privileges | 6.61 | 5.83% |
| 12 | VOILÀ Hotel Rewards | 6.57 | 3.41% |
| 13 | Award World / Steigenberger | 6.38 | 3.16% |
| 14 | Wyndham Rewards | 6.05 | 4.22% |
[ Middle East / Asia / Oceania ]
Virgin Australia Velocity
Virgin Australia pulls ahead of Jet Airways JetPrivilege for another Freddie win. El Al Matmid Club had a higher value vote at 8.89 but with only 1.31 percent of the votes, they didn’t make the cut. Platinum members receive four complimentary upgrades per year on domestic flights from qualifying fares and Gold and Platinum members receive complimentary access to the Virgin Australia lounge. Silver members receive two single entry passes and a discounted lounge membership.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | Virgin Australia Velocity | 8.55 | 19.59% |
| 2 | Jet Airways JetPrivilege | 8.52 | 17.02% |
| 3 | Emirates Skywards | 8.41 | 40.38% |
| 4 | Qatar Airways Privilege Club | 7.57 | 15.26% |
| 5 | All Nippon Airways Mileage Club | 7.49 | 4.37% |
| 6 | Air China PhoenixMiles | 7.38 | 2.56% |
| 7 | Etihad Guest | 7.16 | 14.39% |
| 8 | JAL Mileage Bank | 7.05 | 4.27% |
| 9 | Gulf Air Frequent Flyer | 7.01 | 3.46% |
| 10 | Korean Air SKYPASS | 6.96 | 2.97% |
| 11 | Asiana Airlines Asiana Club | 6.89 | 2.54% |
| 12 | China Southern Airlines Sky Pearl Club | 6.88 | 2.93% |
| 13 | Qantas Frequent Flyer | 6.84 | 14.71% |
| 14 | Cathay Pacific Asia Miles | 6.66 | 12.18% |
| 15 | Singapore Airlines Krisflyer | 6.62 | 23.40% |
| 16 | Air India Flying Returns | 6.37 | 5.04% |
| 17 | Thai Airways Royal Orchid Plus | 6.05 | 9.60% |
| 18 | Air New Zealand Airpoints | 5.95 | 5.72% |
| 19 | Kingfisher Airlines King Club | 5.87 | 2.61% |
Hyatt Gold Passport
Another repeat winner, Hyatt Gold Passport wins Best Elite Program in Middle East / Asia / Oceania for the fourth consecutive year. Hyatt Gold Passport has some spectacular properties in this region, including the Park Hyatt Maldives and Grand Hyatt Tokyo. On top of blissful stays at luxurious properties, members value the program’s generous elite benefits, including confirmable suite upgrades and free breakfast for Diamond members.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | Hyatt Gold Passport | 7.67 | 29.11% |
| 2 | Taj Hotels & Resorts InnerCircle | 7.63 | 17.09% |
| 3 | IHG Priority Club Rewards | 7.59 | 25.49% |
| 4 | Marriott Rewards | 7.49 | 36.84% |
| 5 | Club ITC | 7.38 | 7.57% |
| 6 | Starwood Preferred Guest | 7.25 | 24.97% |
| 7 | Le Club Accorhotels | 7.21 | 10.50% |
| 8 | Shangri-La Golden Circle | 7.04 | 16.82% |
| 9 | Club Carlson | 6.98 | 4.57% |
| 10 | Best Western Rewards | 6.81 | 11.32% |
| 11 | Hilton HHonors | 6.74 | 27.00% |
| 12 | Fairmont President’s Club | 6.63 | 3.67% |
| 13 | Choice Privileges | 6.53 | 3.59% |
| 14 | Wyndham Rewards | 6.48 | 3.46% |
BEST LOYALTY CREDIT CARD
Most programs offer points and other benefits from the use of mileage or points earning credit cards. This award recognizes the credit card that members feel offers the most value.
[ Americas ]
Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Credit Card
When Southwest launched the all-new Rapid Rewards on March 1, 2011, the Rapid Rewards Credit Card changed as well with members earning points instead of credits for purchases. The earlier version of the credit card never received much attention in the Freddie Awards but the new program and features have catapulted the Rapid Rewards Credit Card into the Freddie limelight. Members like the new point-earning card that gives them an anniversary bonus of up to 6,000 points and the ability to earn up to 15,000 Tier Qualifying Points per year in addition to earning points for purchases. Plus, only credit cardholders can redeem points for More Rewards, which include flights on other airlines, hotels and car rentals.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards | 8.643 | 24.55% |
| 2 | Citi/AAdvantage Card | 8.639 | 23.10% |
| 3 | LifeMiles CITI Visa Infinite | 8.62 | 2.52% |
| 4 | Marriott Rewards Visa | 8.28 | 24.13% |
| 5 | United MileagePlus Explorer Card | 7.74 | 14.29% |
| 6 | American Express Membership Rewards | 7.72 | 22.21% |
| 7 | Delta SkyMiles American Express | 7.71 | 16.73% |
| 8 | Alaska Airlines Visa Signature | 7.46 | 3.54% |
| 9 | Starwood Preferred Guest American Express | 7.417 | 5.58% |
| 10 | Choice Privileges Visa Signature | 7.417 | 4.07% |
| 11 | Priority Club Select Visa Card | 7.36 | 6.69% |
| 12 | Hyatt Credit Card | 6.85 | 3.26% |
| 13 | Chase Sapphire Preferred Card | 6.71 | 7.06% |
| 14 | US Airways Dividend Miles MasterCard | 6.67 | 5.60% |
| 15 | Diners Club Club Rewards | 6.40 | 2.68% |
| 16 | Hilton HHonors American Express | 6.38 | 8.78% |
| 17 | JetBlue Card from American Express | 6.28 | 2.81% |
| 18 | Best Western Rewards MasterCard | 5.89 | 2.49% |
[ Europe / Africa ]
Flying Blue American Express Card
It’s no surprise that the program that won Program of the Year in Europe / Africa would also win Best Loyalty Credit Card. Members who love Flying Blue will want to earn as many miles as they can and pulling out the plastic brings them one step closer to that dream trip. Flying Blue American Express cardmembers can earn between 0.5 and 1.5 miles per euro spent on all purchases and up to two miles per euro spent on flights with Air France and KLM. Additional benefits include the ability to extend the validity of miles, elite qualifying flight credit and the ability for Platinum members to gift Platinum status to another member with the Platinum version of the credit card.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | Flying Blue American Express Card | 8.80 | 32.58% |
| 2 | Virgin Atlantic Credit Card Account from MBNA | 8.60 | 11.58% |
| 3 | SAS EuroBonus American Express Card | 8.24 | 10.44% |
| 4 | Lufthansa Miles & More Credit Card | 8.00 | 28.96% |
| 5 | Miles&Smiles Credit Card by Garantibank | 7.88 | 5.26% |
| 6 | American Express Membership Rewards | 7.67 | 23.89% |
| 7 | Alitalia American Express Credit Card | 7.31 | 6.22% |
| 8 | IHG Priority Club Rewards Visa | 6.98 | 10.49% |
| 9 | Marriott Rewards Visa | 6.85 | 10.26% |
| 10 | Diners Club Club Rewards | 6.84 | 10.82% |
| 11 | Iberia Sendo Card | 6.66 | 2.48% |
| 12 | Citibank CSA MasterCard | 6.55 | 5.62% |
| 13 | Starwood Preferred Guest American Expres s | 6.26 | 4.52% |
| 14 | British Airways American Express Card | 6.23 | 14.86% |
| 15 | South African Airways Voyager Credit Card | 6.19 | 2.18% |
| 16 | Finnair Plus Visa | 6.03 | 3.43% |
| 17 | Hilton HHonors Visa Signature Card | 6.01 | 9.20% |
| 18 | airberlin Visa Card | 5.92 | 4.33% |
[ Middle East / Asia / Oceania ]
JetPrivilege HDFC Bank Credit Card
The mileage-earning JetPrivilege Credit Card is voted the Best Loyalty Credit Card in Middle East / Asia / Oceania. Cardholders can earn double miles when using the card to purchase Jet Airways tickets, receive complimentary airport lounge access, flight upgrades and more, depending on the card type. Bonus miles for renewing the card each year, flight discounts and the ability to earn Tier Points are additional card-specific benefits.
| Value | Percent | ||
| 1 | JetPrivilege HDFC Bank Credit Card | 8.72 | 14.16% |
| 1 | Virgin Australia / Virgin Money Credit Card | 8.49 | 20.28% |
| 2 | Emirates Skywards Citibank Credit Card | 8.11 | 27.69% |
| 3 | Minsheng Shangri-La Co-brand Credit Card | 8.05 | 2.95% |
| 4 | American Express Membership Rewards | 7.95 | 26.96% |
| 5 | QNB Qatar Airways MasterCard | 7.65 | 7.28% |
| 6 | JALCARD JCB card | 7.51 | 4.47% |
| 7 | Air China PhoenixMiles Credit Card | 7.48 | 3.26% |
| 8 | Asiana Visa | 7.46 | 3.07% |
| 9 | ANA Suica Card | 7.40 | 4.07% |
| 10 | Etihad Guest Above Credit Card | 7.33 | 11.13% |
| 11 | China Southern Sky Pearl Club Visa | 7.11 | 3.36% |
| 12 | Gulf Air Ahli United Bank credit card | 6.94 | 2.74% |
| 13 | Saudi Arabian Alfursan NCB card | 6.88 | 2.32% |
| 14 | NAB Standard Velocity Rewards Card | 6.84 | 5.54% |
| 15 | Qantas American Express Card | 6.71 | 12.56% |
| 16 | ANZ Airpoints Platinum Credit Card | 6.70 | 7.65% |
| 17 | Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer American Express | 6.67 | 15.36% |
| 18 | KTC – Royal Orchid Plus World MasterCard | 6.58 | 2.41% |
| 19 | Cathay Pacific American Express Credit Card | 6.54 | 9.56% |
| 20 | Citibank EVA Air Voyage Card | 6.34 | 6.20% |
| 21 | HSBC China Airlines Signature card | 6.29 | 4.88% |
| 22 | Air India American Express Card | 6.05 | 4.96% |
| 23 | Kingfisher American Express First Card | 5.94 | 3.32% |
A Brief History of the Freddie Awards
The idea behind the Freddie Awards was a simple one. Freddie Awards founder Randy Petersen was frequently asked, “Who has the best frequent flyer program?” The answer was easy for him to answer for himself, but the best program isn’t the same for everyone. What’s good for Bruce in Seattle or Bob in Fort Lauderdale is different than what is best for Sharon in Memphis because the airlines serving the areas are different and people have different types of redemption patterns. Maybe they want upgrades and status instead of awards and discounts. Petersen started the Freddie Awards as a way to make it easier to answer the question he was repeatedly getting asked as frequent flyer programs became more popular. With the results of the Freddie Awards voting, he could tell people which program won Program of the Year or Best Elite Program and the answer would be more objective and universal than his personal opinion.
The Early Years
When Petersen first started the Freddies in 1988, there weren’t any awards in the travel loyalty industry. He chose to name them after Sir Freddie Laker because, he said, “If he was good enough to be knighted by the Queen then he’s certainly good enough to have an award named after him.” He didn’t contact Sir Freddie about the awards until the 12th or 13th Freddie Awards. By then, Sir Freddie was retired and living in the Bahamas and he had not heard anything about the Freddie Awards. Petersen asked for permission and forgiveness for not asking in advance and it turned out Sir Freddie was honored by the namesake. They eventually met and became friends and Sir Freddie and his wife Lady Jacqueline were always on the Freddie Awards invite list as honored guests. When Sir Freddie Laker died in 2006, his family asked Petersen to speak at his funeral.
Getting the Vote Out
The earliest Freddie Awards only had a few hundred voters. It was a young industry and there weren’t that many people playing the game. To help get out the vote, Petersen would take a bundle of ballots wherever he was traveling. When staying at a hotel, he’d wake up early and go down the hallway on every floor and slide a ballot under the door of each hotel room. He got caught a few times when security would notice and ask what he was doing. He says, “I never got thrown in jail but they were trying to figure out what I was doing.”
The original ballots were paper ballots and needed to be stamped and mailed. Freddie voting has gone from mailing, to faxing, to online and now voters are turning to mobile devices. Over 25 percent of the votes this year came in via a mobile device. Petersen says Freddie Awards ballots have “gone through everything except the Pony Express.”
Getting Lost and Rock Bands
When the Freddies first started, and for several years afterwards, Petersen would fly around the world and hand deliver the trophies to the winning programs. This was before cell phones and GPS and sometimes finding the right building was a challenge. One year, Petersen was an hour late when presenting a Freddie Award to Marriott International in London. He was in a panic running around London trying to figure out where Marriott’s International offices were located. They didn’t mind his lateness and were happy to receive the award, which was in the form of a plaque back then.
One year that SAS EuroBonus won Program of the Year, Petersen went to present the award and EuroBonus threw a big party that night with food, music and drinks. One of the directors of EuroBonus was in a rock band and they re-named their band that night “The Freddies.” They even re-did their drum kit so the front of it had “The Freddies” name on it. (If only we had a photo!)
Memorable Ceremonies
The 10th anniversary of the Freddie Awards was the first time there was an actual award ceremony and Petersen chose to host it in New York City. Since then, award ceremonies have also been held in Colorado Springs, Los Angeles, Arlington, Phoenix, Fort Lauderdale, Houston and Newark. This year, they returned to the D.C. area to be held at USA Today’s corporate headquarters in McLean, Virginia.
Participants of the events may remember Petersen presenting the awards through the years wearing a top hat and tails with gloves, a cowboy hat and a Hawaiian shirt, among other notable clothing choices. And he proposed to the love of his life, Julie, at the Wyndham Colorado Springs event in 2003. (She said yes.)
This year has seen the most international voters of all time and an increase in the overall number of voters. While the Freddies have grown and expanded, the Freddies remain true to the original vision. Petersen says, “It’s still about the voice of the individual frequent flyer trying to tell everybody out there that these programs are delivering great value.”
Fun Freddie Facts
For the 25th Anniversary of the Freddie Awards, we took a look back at the winners, almost winners, one-time winners and more.
All-Time Biggest Winners
For the 25 years that we’ve been handing out these prestigious awards, Marriott has won the most overall with a very impressive 124 awards—that’s an average of five awards per year. Starwood follows Marriott with 113 awards and Continental won the most of any airline at 50 awards.
Longest Winning Streak in a Single Category
Southwest won 11 consecutive Best Award Redemption Freddie Awards to take this distinction.
The Most Freddies Won by a Single Program in a Single Year
Starwood hauled away a whopping 17 Freddie Awards from the 17th Annual Freddie Awards ceremony.
All-Time Program of the Year Winners
Continental won 10 Program of the Year Freddies in the Americas before it merged with United. Alaska Airlines comes in second place with five wins for Program of the Year. In the Americas hotel arena, Marriott takes the top spot with 14 wins. For airline programs outside the Americas, SAS won the most with seven and Starwood takes the top hotel spot internationally with 14.
Adjust for Inflation
Only 864 ballots were cast in the first Freddie Awards. This year, there were over 2.9 million—that’s a 335,548 percent increase.
Highways and High Raves
Budget Rent-A-Car is the only car rental program to have received a Freddie. Budget was awarded an Industry Impact Award in the 7th Annual Freddie Awards for their “Play It Smart” program.
One Hit Wonders – a.k.a, One-Time Winners
To be fair, we must point out that some of these programs are no longer with us and will not have the chance to repeat a win.
TWA: 1st Annual Freddie Awards – Program of the Year
Ansett Australia: 9th Annual Freddie Awards – Best Newsletter
Air New Zealand: 17th Annual Freddie Awards – Best Award Redemption Japan, Pacific, Asia, Australia
Cathay Pacific: 17th Annual Freddie Awards – Best Award Japan, Pacific, Asia, Australia
Singapore Airlines: 18th Annual Freddie Awards – Program of the Year Japan, Pacific, Asia, Australia
US Airways: 19th Annual Freddie Awards – Best Bonus Americas
Choice Hotels: 19th Annual Freddie Awards – Best Award Americas
Radisson: 19th Annual Freddie Awards – Best Member Communications
Korean Air: 20th Annual Freddie Awards – Best Member Communications
British Airways: 21st Annual Freddie Awards – Best Award Americas
TAM: 24th Annual Freddie Awards – Best Award Redemption
Avianca: 25th Annual Freddie Awards – Best Award Redemption Americas
