Avios has become a widely adopted loyalty currency, with five airline programs now utilizing it. British Airways, Iberia, and Aer Lingus have been long-time users, while Qatar Airways and Finnair recently joined the list. One key feature of these programs is the ability to transfer Avios between them at a 1:1 rate without additional cost, offering travelers flexibility in choosing the most suitable program.
The author, based in the UK, initially favored British Airways Executive Club due to its numerous earning and redemption opportunities. However, with new additions to the Avios family in 2024, they reassessed each program's benefits but decided to continue focusing on British Airways Executive Club for 2025.
"Easily achievable elite status," according to Zach Griff from The Points Guy, is one reason for this choice. Earning elite status depends on travel habits; however, mid-tier Silver or top-tier Gold status with British Airways provides valuable perks like priority check-in and lounge access. Griff notes that "BA Silver status comes with all sorts of perks...which I've found very valuable when flying in economy."