Virgin America - eleVAte

Program Overview

Virgin America is a relatively new airline serving the United States. Their frequent flyer program is called 'eleVAte', with the VA capitalized for 'Virgin America'. The airline started up in 2007, and the eleVAte program took off.

Earn Opportunities

Unlike other frequent flyer programs, eleVAte runs on a point system instead of miles. Points are earned based on every dollar spent, not every mile flown. Many people prefer this, and it's one reason that the airline is increasing in popularity. Not only can points be earned by flights being purchased, but they can be earned by making purchases with the Virgin America credit card. Points can also be earned by renting cars from Avis, or Budget Rentals.

Redeem Opportunities

With the eleVAte program, redeeming points is very simple and straightforward. While some other airlines allow you to redeem points for upgrades or merchandise, eleVAte allows customers to simply get free flights- which is what frequent flyer programs were originally intended for. Since redeeming points for other goods and services isn't really an option, program members can get a free flight for as little as 2,100 points. No other airline offers free airfare for that small of an amount of points. Another thing that not many other airlines can boast proudly: eleVAte offers no blackout dates, and members can use their points for any seat they wish.

Transfer Opportunities

Virgin America's eleVAte program does not allow transferring of any of their points to different programs.

Conclusion

While eleVAte is a new membership program, it brings a new perspective to older frequent flyer programs. Virgin America and eleVAte brings new simplicity to a market saturated with often too-technical customer loyalty programs.