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Redeem Those Hard-Earned Frequent Flier Miles

DENVER (CBS4)- It's easier than ever to rack up frequent flier miles with using your credit cards, car rentals, hotel stays and more. But actually redeeming those miles can seem impossible- at least with some airlines.

The biggest complaint from travelers is when airlines promise tree travel in exchange for loyalty but it's too difficult to actually redeem those points for a free flight.

According to the consulting firm Idea Works, the airline that tops the list of frequent flier availability is Southwest Airlines. It ranks first for the ease of finding seats and redeeming frequent flier miles.

Jet Blue ranks second followed by United Airlines in third.

There are some options when it comes to turning in those frequent flier miles.

  • Keep checking the online reservations. The availability of award seats constantly changes.
  •  Use the phone instead of the keyboard. Sometimes it works better to talk to a representative of the airline when booking frequent flier trips.
  • Be flexible. If you're heading to a popular place, check the availability for several days.
  • Be creative. Check surrounding cities near your destination place.

The worst-ranked airlines for frequent flier redemption: Delta Airlines and U.S. Airways.

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