British Airways travellers have just days to act before a major change to the Avios loyalty scheme takes effect on May 27. Avios is the reward programme used by more than 30 major airlines, including British Airways, Iberia and Aer Lingus, allowing customers to accumulate points that can be exchanged for flights, though taxes and fees still apply.
Cash Element to Rise
MoneySavingExpert.com (MSE) warns that from May 27, the cash amount payable towards a reward flight with British Airways will increase, meaning travellers will pay more for the same journey. The number of Avios points required remains unchanged. MSE provides examples of the additional costs: a business class return flight from London to New York will jump from 176,000 Avios plus £399 to £499 – an increase of £100. For shorter routes, the rise is smaller; a one-way economy flight from London to Amsterdam currently costs 10,000 Avios plus £1, but will increase to £2.50.
Impact on Existing Bookings
MSE also cautions that any pre-existing bookings will be subject to the new cash prices if changes are made after May 27. If no changes are required, the booking will remain at the original price. In an article on its website, the MSE team stated: “If you’re planning to use Avios to book reward flights with British Airways (BA), consider doing so before Wednesday 27 May. From that date, the cash amount you have to pay towards a reward flight will rise – meaning you’ll need to spend more for the same journey (though the amount of points you’ll need is staying the same).”
Collecting Avios Points
Avios points can be collected in various ways, including booking flights, car hire, hotels, or through everyday shopping by clicking through to a retailer via the British Airways Executive Club website. MSE urges travellers to always compare flights with other airlines to ensure they are getting the best deal and not to spend Avios if a better cash price is available elsewhere.
On the British Airways website, the airline explains: “From 27 May 2026, the price of Reward Flights will increase. This will only affect the cash element of your booking. Prices reflect off-peak dates and are subject to availability. Reward Flights booked prior to this change will remain at the current price.”
