Question

What new ways can I use my points now?

With all the recent program updates and new redemption options, what should I be looking at to get the most value from my points and miles right now?

WiseFlyer

If you hold a Bilt card, the long-promised Blade helicopter redemptions are finally live. You can book up to two seats per year using Bilt Cash, Bilt Points, or a combination, with up to $350 in Bilt Cash per seat. Given that standard Manhattan-to-JFK or Newark flights start around $200–$250, this could be a smart use of Bilt Cash before year-end, especially since only $100 of unused Bilt Cash rolls over. Just note the cap: two flights per calendar year.

For Avios collectors, there's a new award calendar on Avios.com that makes searching for flights much easier. This doesn't change the value of your points, but it does save time and frustration when trying to find saver-level awards. If you've been avoiding Avios because of clunky search tools, it's worth another look.

U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve cardholders finally have transfer partners: Air France-KLM Flying Blue, Accor Live Limitless, Qantas Frequent Flyer, and Ethiopian Airlines ShebaMiles, all at a 1:1 ratio except Accor (2:1). This is a big deal because it gives you a way to potentially beat the fixed 1 cent per point redemption value. The list is small, and the card isn't open to new applicants, but if you're holding one, now's the time to explore transfers. No word yet on whether Korean Air or other partners will follow.

Bottom line

Bilt Cash users should jump on Blade flights before year-end; Avios fans get a better search tool; and U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve holders finally have transfer partners to play with.

P.S. If you're still waiting for U.S. Bank to add Korean Air, you and I both are holding our breath.

Avios Bilt transfer partners U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve