In recent months, numerous frequent flyer programs have announced revisions to their award charts—or have made changes without prior notice, e.g. Miles&More is implementing significant modifications in June, which will considerably reduce the value of accumulated miles.
Now, Asia Miles, Cathay Pacific’s frequent flyer program, has also announced adjustments to its redemption rates. Starting April 15, 2025, many business class award flights will be around 5% more expensive, while short-haul economy flights will see a slight price reduction. These changes are relatively moderate, though the last devaluation happened less than two years ago.
Excerpt from the New Award Chart
The complete new mileage chart has not yet been published. Cathay has only provided a few example prices for economy and business class, which will take effect from April 15 (00:00 Hong Kong time):
| Class | Distance1 | Example Route | Old Price | New Price | Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy | < 750 mi | HKG - TPE, HKG - MNL | 7,500 miles | 7,000 miles | (-7%) |
| Economy | 751 – 2,750 mi (Type 1) | HKG - SIN, HKG - PVG | 10,000 miles | 9,000 miles | (-10%) |
| Economy | 751 – 2,750 mi (Type 2) | HKG - DPS, HKG - TYO | 12,500 miles | 13,000 miles | (+4%) |
| Business | 5,001 – 7,500 mi | HKG - FRA, HKG - LAX | 84,000 miles | 88,000 miles | (+5%) |
| Business | > 7,500 mi | SYD - HKG - FRA, HKG - NYC | 110,000 miles | 115,000 miles | (+5%) |
In addition to the mileage price, taxes, fees, and fuel surcharges apply, e.g. fuel surcharges amount to approximately €85 for a Hong Kong – Frankfurt business class ticket and €171 for a Sydney – Hong Kong – Frankfurt itinerary. It remains unclear whether award rates for partner airline flights will also be adjusted.
Conclusion
At first glance, this mileage devaluation seems relatively minor. However, this is mainly because Cathay has already pushed the limits since 2023. Back then, a one-way business class ticket from Europe to Australia increased from 85,000 to 110,000 miles. Soon, it will cost 115,000 miles.
At least Cathay’s fuel surcharges remain relatively moderate. However, the program is becoming increasingly unattractive. For comparison, Qatar Airways offers a business class flight from Australia to Europe for 90,000 miles—but with around €100 in additional fuel surcharges.
Source: Verylvke