How quickly will purchased LifeMiles post to my account?

While the official terms state that miles will be deposited within 72 hours of purchase, data points show that LifeMiles purchases typically post within 12 hours on average, with many posting almost immediately. If you're purchasing miles for an imminent booking, you'll likely be able to use them quickly, though it's always safer to allow some buffer time if possible.

What airlines can I redeem LifeMiles on?

As a Star Alliance member, Avianca LifeMiles can be redeemed for flights on all 26 Star Alliance airlines, including United, Lufthansa, SWISS, ANA, EVA Air, Turkish Airlines, and Singapore Airlines. The program doesn't impose fuel surcharges on award tickets, making it particularly valuable for premium cabin redemptions on carriers that typically have high surcharges when booked through other programs.

Yes, LifeMiles expire after 12 months of inactivity. Any earning activity, including purchasing miles, will reset the expiration clock. However, redeeming miles does not count as activity that extends the expiration date. If you're concerned about expiration, buying even a small number of miles will extend the life of your entire balance.

Can I book mixed-cabin awards with LifeMiles?

Yes, LifeMiles allows mixed-cabin awards, and the program will price these proportionally based on the distance flown in each cabin. This can be advantageous when premium cabin space isn't available for the entire journey, allowing you to book the long-haul segment in business or first class while using economy for shorter connecting flights.

Does LifeMiles have access to the same award space as other Star Alliance programs?

Not always. LifeMiles sometimes has access to different award inventory than other Star Alliance programs. In some cases, LifeMiles may not show awards that are available to other programs, while in other instances, it may show availability that other programs don't have access to. This is why it's crucial to search for specific award space before purchasing miles for a particular redemption.

Can I cancel a LifeMiles award ticket if my plans change?

Yes, but it comes with fees. LifeMiles charges $200 per person to cancel an award ticket and redeposit the miles. For changes to dates or routes, the fee is $150. These fees are relatively high compared to some other programs, so it's best to have firm travel plans before booking with LifeMiles. No-shows result in forfeiture of the miles and taxes paid.