United Loyalty ProgramUnited Airlines’ MileagePlus loyalty program was honored by Global Traveler magazine with the top prize in the Best Overall Frequent-Flyer Program category. The award is made more impressive by the fact that the company has taken home the award in 12 consecutive years.

Global Traveler’s awards are awarded annually according to data gathered from its GT Tested Reader Survey. Top vote-getters in the travel and hospitality industry are recognized across more than 60 categories. In addition to honoring airlines, Global Traveler also determines winners in categories such as Best Hotel Airport, Best Airport Dining, and Best Hotel Rewards Program.

Operating an average of almost 5,000 flights a day, United is one of the world’s largest airlines. MileagePlus offers points not only for flying on United Airlines, but also for making purchases at partners around the world.

The program’s continued recognition is largely due to its expansive network of partners with which travelers can earn and redeem points. Additionally, the number of United Loyalty Programsavailable “Saver” seats ensure that members can redeem their points on any flight they choose; the May 2015 Switchfly Reward Seat Availability Survey awarded them with the distinction of having the most seats available for Frequent-Flyer Mile redemption.

Loyalty programs often hinge upon the number of redemption options offered to members. As loyalty programs increase the number of available rewards, customers are more likely to change purchasing behavior in order to reach incentives.

In addition to Best Overall Frequent-Flyer Program, United also took home Best Trans-Pacific Airline and Best Frequent-Flyer Bonus Promotion. Accepting on behalf of United Airlines was Thomas F. O’Toole, CMO of United and President of MileagePlus.

“The 2015 Global Traveler awards, voted on by savvy travelers worldwide, recognize our ongoing commitment to advancing United's service to our customers,” said O’Toole. “We are particularly gratified that readers voted MileagePlus as the Best Overall Frequent-Flyer Program in the world for the twelfth consecutive year, which attests to our continued development of the industry's top loyalty program.”

Francis X. Gallagher, Publisher and CEO of Global Traveler, also commented on United’s big win and highly impressive streak.

“Congratulations to our friends at United Airlines on their recent wins in our GT Tested Reader Survey awards,” said Gallagher. “Twelve consecutive years as Best Frequent-Flyer Program is quite an accomplishment. United is not just a favorite of our readers, but also a favorite of our staff, and we can see why the carrier continues to win accolades year after year.”

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