British Airways has issued a warning to customers using its popular Avios loyalty scheme, as the cash component of reward flights is set to increase from Wednesday, May 27. The changes affect travelers who book flights using Avios points, the frequent flyer currency used by British Airways and partner airlines including Iberia, Qatar Airways, Aer Lingus, and Finnair.
Higher cash payments for reward flights
From Wednesday, holidaymakers will need to pay more cash alongside their Avios points on reward flights with British Airways. The changes were flagged by Martin Lewis' MoneySavingExpert.com team, which provided examples of how prices will shift.
For instance, a return economy flight from London to Cape Town currently costs 66,000 Avios points plus £170. After the change, the same flight will require 66,000 Avios points plus £190, an increase of £20. Meanwhile, a business return reward flight from London to New York will rise from 176,000 Avios points plus £399 to the same points plus £499, an increase of £100.
Broader context of rising travel costs
The price rise comes amid broader increases in the travel industry. EasyJet has also announced it will raise its minimum ticket prices due to rising aviation fuel costs, which have been exacerbated by the Iran war and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting around a fifth of the world's oil supply.
British Airways customers are advised to book reward flights before Wednesday to lock in the lower cash rates. The airline has not commented on whether further increases are planned.
