Air France-KLM’s Flying Blue program is running a limited-time promotion: an 80% bonus on purchased miles. This brings the effective cost down to approximately 1.69 cents per mile, making it a potentially worthwhile deal for strategic travelers. However, maximizing this offer requires understanding how Flying Blue miles work and whether they align with your travel goals.
Understanding the Promotion
From December 2 to December 22, 2025, Flying Blue members can purchase miles with a bonus ranging up to 80%. This bonus is triggered by a minimum purchase of 50,000 miles (before the bonus is applied). The exact offer may vary by account; logging in is necessary to confirm your individual discount.
Cost Breakdown
Without any bonus, Flying Blue miles typically cost around 3.05 cents each. With the 80% bonus, buying 100,000 miles will yield a total of 180,000 miles for $3,050—effectively 1.69 cents per mile. This is a competitive rate, though past promotions have offered even better deals (up to 1.53 cents per mile with a 100% bonus).
Purchase Limits and Credit Cards
Non-elite members can purchase up to 100,000 miles annually before bonuses. Elite members have higher limits. The transaction is processed through Points.com, meaning it won’t qualify as an airline purchase for credit card spending bonuses. Choose a card that maximizes everyday rewards instead.
Is It Worth It?
Flying Blue offers decent value, especially for long-haul business class awards. Saver-level transatlantic flights can cost as little as 60,000 miles one-way, but availability is limited. The program shines because Air France and KLM often release more award seats to Flying Blue members than to partners.
Free stopovers are another benefit, allowing for multi-city trips at no extra mileage cost. Award tickets typically include moderate carrier-imposed surcharges (around $200 one-way for business class).
Redeeming Your Miles
Flying Blue miles can be redeemed on SkyTeam partners (Delta, Korean Air, etc.) and unique partners like Aircalin and Etihad. First-class redemptions are possible on select airlines, including China Eastern and Garuda Indonesia. However, the best value remains with Air France and KLM themselves.
Mileage Value and Expiration
Personal valuations of Flying Blue miles vary, but many estimate around 1.3 cents each. Miles expire after 24 months of inactivity (no flights or credit card spending). Transferring from partner programs (American Express, Chase, Capital One, etc.) won’t reset the expiration clock.
Conclusion
The current Flying Blue promotion is a solid opportunity for those with specific redemption goals. Buying miles at 1.69 cents each can be worthwhile if you’re targeting business class awards, especially if you’re flexible with destinations or dates. However, consider availability and alternative earning methods before purchasing. Crunch the numbers and ensure the math works for your next trip.
