the.com/airline miles
a currency you earn by suffering, that airlines can devalue overnight without asking.
means loyalty points awarded for flying or spending, redeemable for flights, upgrades, or mild disappointment.
from american airlines launched aadvantage in 1981 as a way to reward frequent flyers and lock in loyalty during the deregulation-era fare wars; other airlines copied it within months.
total valueoutstanding miles worth more than some national currencies
real currencybanks buy miles from airlines for actual cash
expiration trickmany programs quietly devalue miles yearly
credit card drivenmost miles now come from spending, not flying