Q: I tried to use my frequent-flier miles on United over the holidays for a trip to Hawaii and was refused. I was offered a seat on the flight I wanted but for twice the number of miles. Can they do this?— Lucy Marsh, Denver
A: Frequent-flier programs are almost a necessity for anyone wanting to get an affordable fare to a decent vacation destination in today’s economy. While you had the necessary 35,000 miles to land the ticket at the time — it’s 40,000 now — United, like most other airlines, limits the number of seats available for frequent-flier bookings on a given flight.
Once those seats are filled, frequent fliers can get a seat, but only using double the number of miles.
It seems even more likely they were booked, because Hawaii is a popular destination for miles used at the holidays.
You might have better luck next time booking long in advance of the trip. A couple of months might seem adequate, but with Hawaii being a hot destination and during the Thanksgiving-to-Christmas time frame, suddenly the ante is raised.
United allows frequent-flier bookings up to 330 days in advance, so the further out you book, the likelihood of your getting a first seat increases.
Don’t despair, either, if you haven’t the adequate amount of miles. Airlines allow passengers to purchase them. At United, they’re charged in blocks, so 100 miles is $67.25 and 1,000 miles is $357.50. Or you can transfer them from a friend for a small fee.
