Why are “free” frequent flyer miles taxed, asks Katie.

Why do passengers have to pay airport taxes & fees when we redeem frequent flier miles for a free air ticket, but we do not have to pay similar fees when we redeem hotel points for free stays? The math I learned was that zero multiplied by anything was zero, but somehow, the airlines don’t comprehend this concept. What gives??

We asked Mark Ashley of UpgradeTravel and he says:

“Because some taxes are NOT charged as a percentage of the ticket, but as a flat fee, such as a $5 9/11 security fee. And international tickets have more taxes than domestic tickets. The question is, why are some fees “covered” by your miles, but others aren’t.

Some airlines are more generous than others. Some pick up the tab on some international taxes, while others don’t. I don’t have hard data right now, but if I remember correctly, United and American charge less in taxes on free tickets than, say, KLM / Northwest. “

Katie also sent her question to the Department of Transportation, but somehow we were able to respond a bit faster. — BEN POPKEN

Want more consumer news? Visit our parent organization, Consumer Reports, for the latest on scams, recalls, and other consumer issues.