Emirates creates new Skywards zones

Dubai: Emirates has announced new zones for its frequent flier programme. The zones will change the amount of miles amassed on a trip and make the facility dependent on the type of ticket purchased.

The Skywards programme will be based on 18 common geographic zones. All changes will come into effect on January 1, 2010.

One major change is that miles will now be calculated from where the journey begins and ends, as per the traveller's ticket. Instead of receiving miles after each individual sector or flight, miles will now be credited after the traveller reaches his destination.

Emirates customers had expressed fears that they would earn fewer miles on cheaper tickets. However, Emirates has said that miles now can be earned "in a more consistent and straight forward manner."

Passengers are eligible for increased class bonuses when flying in Business Class or First Class.