The airlines entered into a reciprocal frequent flyer program agreement in August,
although members of each loyalty program could only earn dollars and points until now.
Not exact matches
Members of Starwood's
loyalty program will earn double Starpoints on all eligible stays at over 1,000 Starwood properties around the world,
although roughly 135 are not participating in the promotion.
The current portfolio
of cards will continue with no changes,
although the company said that
loyalty program members as well as hotel owners and franchisees will soon see significant incremental benefits from the new agreements.
Members of the two airlines»
loyalty programs can still book and claim award travel on the other carrier through April 30, but not for travel after that date (unless it was booked by December 18,
although no changes will be allowed as
of May 1).
Since Marriott acquired Starwood, it has continued to maintain three separate
loyalty programs — SPG, Marriott Rewards and Ritz - Carlton Rewards —
although accounts can be linked, giving
members of one the opportunity for point transfers and status matches in the others.