Award Flights Aren't Completely Free
When you book an award flight, you'll pay miles plus some cash for taxes and fees. These cash costs can range from $5.60 to $600+ depending on the route and airline.
Types of Fees
Government Taxes
Every flight has mandatory government taxes. For US domestic flights, this is typically just $5.60. International flights have higher taxes depending on origin/destination.
Airport Fees
Some airports charge passenger facility fees. London Heathrow is famously expensive; some Asian airports are quite cheap.
Carrier-Imposed Surcharges (The Big One)
Also called "fuel surcharges" or "YQ fees." These are fees airlines add on top of taxes. They're technically optional but can be substantial.
High surcharge airlines:
- British Airways — Often $400-700 on long-haul
- Lufthansa — Significant surcharges
- Air France — Moderate to high
- Virgin Atlantic — On their own metal
Low/no surcharge airlines:
- United — Generally low fees
- Singapore Airlines — Reasonable
- ANA — Low when booked through partners
- American — Typically low
How to Minimize Fees
1. Choose Low-Fee Airlines
If you have a choice between Lufthansa and United to Frankfurt, United will likely have much lower fees for the same Star Alliance award.
2. Book Through Low-Fee Programs
The booking program matters. British Airways charges high fees on their own flights but much lower fees on partner flights. United doesn't pass through partner surcharges.
3. Avoid Expensive Airports
London Heathrow triggers high UK departure taxes. Sometimes flying through Dublin or another European hub reduces fees.
Real Examples
Always look at the total cost (miles + fees) before committing. A "cheaper" award in miles might cost hundreds more in fees.
Key Takeaways
- All award flights have some cash fees (minimum ~$5.60)
- Carrier surcharges can add $100-600+ on some routes
- Some airlines and programs have much lower fees than others
- The booking program affects fees, not just the airline
- Factor total cost (miles + fees) when comparing options