Loganair, the UK’s largest regional airline, has announced a major shift in its loyalty programme, drawing comparisons with other regional carriers adopting global loyalty networks to increase customer benefits, with plans to adopt Avios as its primary rewards currency in 2025. This significant move positions Loganair as the seventh airline to join the global Avios network, which also includes British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus, and Vueling from the IAG Loyalty network, alongside Qatar Airways and Finnair, which have independently adopted Avios as their rewards currency.. This growing trend reflects the increasing appeal of Avios as a flexible, multi-airline loyalty currency, allowing travelers to redeem points across a wide range of carriers and destinations., following British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus, Vueling, Qatar Airways, and Finnair.
The adoption of Avios will replace Loganair’s current Clan Points system, providing customers with greater flexibility by allowing Avios to be redeemed across multiple airlines, primarily within the IAG Loyalty network, while also usable with partner airlines like Qatar Airways and Finnair., expanding their reward travel options significantly. enhancing flexibility and reward opportunities for both Loganair and British Airways Executive Club members. The transition promises over 1 million seats available annually for Avios redemptions across Loganair’s network, which spans nearly 70 routes from key hubs in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Inverness, and Newcastle.
While full details regarding Avios accrual and redemption rates, as well as the conversion ratio from Clan Points to Avios, are yet to be disclosed, Loganair has confirmed that all existing Clan Points will automatically convert to Avios. The partnership will allow customers to book connecting flights between British Airways and Loganair on a single ticket, offering the same flexibility as cash bookings under their established codeshare agreement.
A Boost for Regional Connectivity
The collaboration marks a continued strengthening of regional connectivity across the UK. Loganair operates several unique and iconic routes, including the world’s shortest scheduled flight between Westray and Papa Westray, lasting just 90 seconds. This partnership opens up broader redemption possibilities for avgeeks and frequent travelers eager to explore Scotland’s remote destinations using Avios.
The strategic move also aligns with Loganair’s broader growth initiatives. Having expanded its codeshare agreement with British Airways in 2022 to cover 38 routes, this new loyalty integration furthers both airlines’ commitment to seamless domestic connectivity. Routes such as Aberdeen to Belfast City and City of Derry to London are now more accessible with Avios redemptions, supporting both leisure and business travel needs.
Leadership Insights and Industry Impact
Luke Lovegrove, Loganair’s Chief Commercial Officer, highlighted the enhanced customer benefits:
“Partnering with IAG Loyalty to adopt Avios as the currency of our Clan programme is a significant development that will open up a world of new benefits for our customers. We’re excited to bring these changes to life in 2025 and look forward to welcoming both Clan and Avios members onboard.”
Veronica Vicars, IAG’s Chief Growth Officer, echoed this excitement:
“We’re thrilled to welcome Loganair as the newest member of our Avios family, marking a significant milestone as our seventh airline partner. With Loganair’s addition, we’re now able to offer customers even greater opportunities to earn and redeem Avios across their important domestic network in the UK and beyond.”
Broader Industry Trends
The integration of Avios by Loganair underscores a broader trend where regional carriers are enhancing customer loyalty by tapping into larger global networks. By joining Avios, Loganair not only increases its appeal among frequent flyers but also strengthens its collaboration with British Airways, a partner in their long-standing codeshare relationship.
As Avios expands its footprint, this partnership reinforces the programme’s ambition to become the most flexible and widely accepted travel loyalty currency globally. With the promise of increased seat availability and easier points integration, the move positions both Loganair and the Avios programme for greater customer satisfaction and expanded travel options.
Looking Ahead
While specific Avios earning rates and redemption structures are yet to be announced, Loganair’s shift to Avios promises enhanced benefits for regional travel. This move cements Loganair’s standing as a key player in UK aviation while offering customers new ways to maximize their loyalty rewards. Stay tuned for further details as the 2025 launch approaches.
