British Airways Executive Club uses Avios as its loyalty currency, similar to Iberia, Aer Lingus, and Qatar Airways, though each program manages its Avios separately. Understanding the BA Executive Club's specific expiration rules is key to protecting your balance.

British Airways Avios Expiration Policy

According to the British Airways Executive Club terms, Avios will expire if you do not collect, spend, purchase, or share at least one Avios point within a period of 36 consecutive months.

This means your account needs some form of qualifying activity at least once every three years to keep your entire Avios balance active. Any qualifying transaction resets the 36-month clock for all the Avios in your BA Executive Club account.

How to Keep Your British Airways Avios From Expiring

Preventing your BA Avios from expiring is relatively simple. You need at least one transaction involving earning, spending, buying, or transferring Avios within any 36-month window. Common ways include:

  • Earn Avios:
    • Fly with British Airways or its oneworld® alliance partners and other airline partners.
    • Use a British Airways co-branded credit card (like the Chase British Airways Visa Signature® Card in the US) for purchases.
    • Transfer points from flexible credit card programs like American Express Membership Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards, Capital One Miles, or Bilt Rewards.
    • Earn Avios through hotel stays, car rentals, the BA shopping portal (eStore), or other non-airline partners.
  • Spend Avios:
    • Book reward flights ("Reward Flight Savers" or standard awards) on British Airways or partner airlines.
    • Use Avios for upgrades on BA flights.
    • Pay for seat selection, baggage, or onboard refreshments with Avios (where offered).
    • Redeem Avios for hotel stays or car rentals.
  • Purchase Avios: Buy Avios directly from British Airways (often comes with bonuses).
  • Share Avios: Transfer Avios to another Executive Club member (fees may apply, but it counts as activity).

Any single qualifying activity will reset the 36-month expiration clock.

Official Policy

For the most current and detailed information, always refer to the official Executive Club documentation:

By staying aware of the 36-month activity requirement and ensuring you complete at least one qualifying transaction within that timeframe, you can easily keep your British Airways Avios balance safe.

Disclaimer: Always use credit responsibly. Program terms and conditions can change. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Verify details directly with British Airways.