Airline Miles Value Calculator

Decide whether to redeem points or pay cash for your next flight. Compare the ticket's cash price to the number of miles plus fees required and instantly see the value you receive for each mile redeemed. Use the insight to stretch loyalty balances and prioritize the best redemptions.

Enter the total price you would pay in cash today, including taxes and carrier-imposed surcharges.
Use the exact number of loyalty miles or points needed for the award seat.
Include booking fees, airport taxes, or fuel surcharges due on the award ticket.

Estimates vary by route and award availability.

Examples

  • $450 cash fare, 32,000 miles, $50 fees ⇒ $0.0125 per mile
  • $780 cash fare, 45,000 miles, $70 fees ⇒ $0.0158 per mile
  • $320 cash fare, 18,000 miles, $35 fees ⇒ $0.0158 per mile

FAQ

Why subtract fees?

Award tickets still require you to pay taxes and carrier fees. Subtracting them isolates the true value provided by your miles.

What value is considered good?

Most U.S. airline miles average 1.1¢ to 1.6¢, but premium cabin awards or peak travel dates can push values far higher.

Does this include miles earned on cash tickets?

No. For a complete comparison, factor in elite qualifying credit, cabin upgrades, and miles you would earn by paying cash.

How do partner awards affect the calculation?

Use the partner's mileage requirement and any partner booking fees. The formula stays the same regardless of the issuing airline.

What if the result is negative?

If fees exceed the cash fare, the redemption offers no savings—book with cash and save the miles for a better trip.

Additional Information

  • Value per mile = (cash price − award fees) ÷ miles spent. A higher figure means a better redemption.
  • Promo fares, transfer bonuses, and dynamic award pricing can all shift the value of your points from trip to trip.
  • Remember to consider miles you would earn on a paid ticket—redeeming points forfeits that future value.

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