Spanish carrier Iberia has announced changes its Iberia Plus frequent flyer programme that will see members earn points based on spend rather than distance travelled.
The move follows that of sister carrier British Airways, which introduced similar changes to its Executive Club loyalty programme in late December, but has since dialled back some components following widespread criticism.
Both carriers are part of the International Airlines Group (IAG), which also includes Irish carrier Aer Lingus and low-cost airline LEVEL.
The changes to Iberia Plus will come into effect from 1 April. These include a rebrand of the programme – now known as ‘Club Iberia Plus’ – and the ability to earn 1 point for every euro spent on air fares, ancillary products and purchases from other brands associated with the programme, the carrier said.
Certain fare types – Optimal, Comfort and Flexible fares – will also earn additional points per leg, depending on the route and cabin class.
According to the carrier, these changes will make it easier to achieve higher loyalty status.
“We believe that this is a fairer and more transparent way of rewarding our most loyal customers. In addition, including the possibility of accumulating Elite Points with our main airline and non-airline partners undoubtedly strengthens our network and offers our customers more and better benefits,” said Beatriz Guillén, director of global sales and loyalty at Iberia.
The programme now has five loyalty tiers, Clásica, Plata, Oro, Platino and the newly-added Platino Prime, which offers additional benefits, such as a greater accumulation of Avios and more options to obtain free cabin upgrades.
Reaching Platino Prime level will only be achieved through euros spent, while Platino status can also be achieved through the number of flights flown. The latter, however, will be valid for one year. Both Platinum and Platinum Prime will be equivalent to oneworld Emerald status.
Meanwhile, the carrier said "a smaller number of flights" will be required per year to achieve Plata and Oro status. The way customers earn Avios, the programme's currency, remains unchanged.