Southwest today announced a major revamp of its frequent flyer mile program. Under the new system, travelers will get points based on their airfare amount. There will also be no blackout dates or seat restrictions (existing members will get grandfathered in). The airline also introduced three new fare buckets, “wanna get away,” “anytime,” and “business select” with increasing points per dollar to redeem and total points required for a free flight. So not only are you getting from point A to point B, you’re also polishing valuable math skills. Southwest came out with 3 videos to explain it all:

Of the change, Consumerist reader Erica said, “Hey look! Southwest has replaced their decent frequent flier program (fly 8 round trips in 2 years, get a free flight) with a newer, worse version! Looks like I won’t be doing all of my flying with them anymore, why bother?”

What do you think? Is the new system easier or harder? Are certain types of travelers benefiting while others get screwed? Sound off in the comments.

INTRODUCING THE ALL-NEW RAPID REWARDS — BLOG POST [BlogSouthwest]

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