Emirates is totally re-vamping its frequent flyer program from 1 January 2010, and introducing an earning model that varies depending on the type of ticket purchased, i.e Full paid ticket or Discount Ticket.

Amongst the many changes the one with the most impact to Emirates Skywards members is introduction of a reduced earning rate for fares discounted fares, which will be known as Skywards Saver Fares.  In addition to the introduction of a reduced earning rate zones will be used to calculate the number of awarded miles along with a bonus miles offer named Skywards Miles Accelerator.

Skywards Miles & Fare Type

After introduction on 1 January 2010 fares will be categorized as either Skywards Flex or Skywards Saver. Fares categorized as Skywards Flex will be non-discounted tickets and for the purposes of miles calculation & will earn 100% base miles, for whatever the miles calculation be for the zones travelled. The discounted Skywards Saver fares will earn 50% base miles for the Zone/s Travelled

Emirates Skyward Zones

Earning Skywards miles from 1 January 2010 will be calculated based on travel within Emirates 18 broad geographic zones, with Dubai being a standalone zone as the hub of the Emirates network.

As yet no details have emerged on the distribution of Skywards 18 Zones or the number of miles which will be earned for flying within them, however earning charts will be available from late October and an online calculator available from 1 January 2010.

Emirates Skywards Class & Tier Bonuses

Under Emirates new Skywards Frequent Flyer Program there is some great news if you are a business or first class flyer, as class bonuses are increasing, travelling Emirates Business Class your class bonus will increase from 50% to 75% of base miles, and for Emirates First Class an increase from 100% to 150% of base miles flown.

Skywards Tier Bonuses remain the same as the existing scheme, that being Sliver members 25% bonus Gold Members 50% Bonus

Skywards Miles Accelerator

The overhaul of the Skywards scheme introduces a new component to its program Miles Accelerator, which in effect is a monthly selection of flights available on the Emirates website that will earn bonus miles.

The list of Skywards Miles Accelerator fares will be updated on Emirates website monthly and only need to be booked & purchased during that month for future travel (up to 1 year)