The pricing model a programme uses determines whether your miles have predictable value or float with the cash market.
Region-based charts
A published table prices awards by origin and destination region and cabin. Predictable, easy to plan around, and the reason certain programmes dominate award-booking research.
Distance-based charts
Pricing scales with flown distance in bands. Excellent for short partner hops and long multi-segment itineraries, less generous on mid-haul routes.
Dynamic pricing
Award prices track cash fares. Availability improves — almost any seat can be bought with miles — but the value of holding miles becomes a floating quantity rather than a fixed one.
Hybrid models
Many programmes now run a chart on partner awards and dynamic pricing on their own metal. Knowing which side of the line your booking falls on is the whole game.
Key takeaways
• Charts make miles a store of value; dynamic pricing makes them a discount coupon.
• Partner awards are often the last refuge of chart pricing.
• Check which model applies before valuing a balance.
Questions
Which programmes still publish charts?
Several, including distance-based and region-based models. Programme pages on this site note the pricing approach for each.
Is dynamic pricing always worse?
Not always. Availability is better and cheap awards do appear during fare sales.
MilesQuote is independent and not affiliated with, endorsed by or partnered with any airline or loyalty programme. Programme names are used for identification only. We publish no fixed rates; every quote is indicative, prepared individually, and never a guarantee of price or completion. Always check your programme's own terms before acting.