Air France-KLM Flying Blue explores zero XP for some business fares

Air France-KLM's Flying Blue loyalty program is currently surveying its members regarding significant potential changes to how Experience Points (XP) are earned. The survey introduces a concept of "differentiated XP by fare brand," which could drastically alter the path to elite status for many frequent flyers. A particularly controversial scenario presented suggests that certain long-haul business class fares might earn zero XP, a move that has generated considerable discussion among program participants.

These proposed adjustments could have a substantial impact on Flying Blue's most loyal customers, especially those who frequently travel in business class for work or leisure and rely on these flights to maintain or achieve elite status. The prospect of earning no XP for what are typically high-value tickets represents a significant devaluation of the program's benefits, potentially forcing members to re-evaluate their flight choices or loyalty to Air France-KLM.

The airline's motivation behind such a survey likely stems from a desire to optimize revenue and align elite status more closely with the most profitable fare categories. This strategy is not uncommon in the airline industry, where carriers continuously seek ways to maximize profitability from their loyalty programs while managing the costs associated with elite benefits. By differentiating XP earning based on fare brand, Air France-KLM could incentivize booking higher-tier business class fares or reduce the number of members achieving elite status through discounted business tickets.

This move reflects a broader industry trend where airlines frequently use member surveys to gauge reactions to potential devaluations or program restructuring before official implementation. Such feedback allows carriers to refine their strategies, balancing the need for profitability with the desire to retain valuable customers. The outcome of this survey could signal a new direction for Flying Blue, potentially impacting how members perceive the value of their loyalty and status with Air France-KLM.