Alaska Atmos Rewards (formerly Alaska Mileage Plan) frequently offers promotions on purchased points, and the latest deal – running from January 19 to February 18, 2026 – could be worthwhile for strategic travelers. The program stands out due to both frequent sales and the strong value of its award redemptions, particularly for shorter distances. This guide breaks down the current offer, how it works, and whether it’s a smart move for you.
The Current Promotion: Up to a 100% Bonus
The promotion provides tiered bonuses based on the number of points purchased:
- 5,000 – 14,000 points: 80% bonus
- 15,000 – 29,000 points: 90% bonus
- 30,000 – 100,000 points: 100% bonus
The best deal, a 100% bonus, effectively reduces the cost to 1.88 cents per point when buying 100,000 points (receiving a total of 200,000). Check your account to confirm your specific offer, as eligibility varies.
How Much Does It Cost?
Normally, Alaska Atmos Rewards points cost 3.5 cents each. With the 100% bonus, purchasing 100,000 points before the bonus would cost $3,762.50, resulting in 200,000 points at a rate of 1.88 cents per point. This is a significant discount compared to the usual price.
Purchase Limits and Elite Benefits
Non-elite members can purchase up to 150,000 points annually (excluding the bonus), while elite members have unlimited purchasing capacity. Transactions are capped at 100,000 points per purchase, but multiple transactions are allowed. Note that you must have been an Atmos Rewards member for at least 10 days to participate.
Which Credit Card to Use?
Purchases are processed through Points.com, so they won’t qualify as airfare spending for bonus categories. Use a card maximizing general spending rewards or one helping you meet a minimum spending requirement.
Why Alaska Atmos Rewards Points Matter
Alaska Atmos Rewards stands out for several reasons:
- Short-Haul Value: The program delivers exceptional value for short-distance premium cabin awards, often beating competitors.
- Unique Partnerships: Alaska partners with both oneworld airlines (American, British Airways, Qantas) and non-oneworld carriers (Condor, Icelandair).
- Stopovers Allowed: Unlike many programs, Alaska permits stopovers on partner awards, stretching your points further.
- Elite Status Benefits: Redeeming points earns you elite status credits – one status point per mile flown.
These features make Alaska a strong contender for maximizing travel rewards, especially when combined with strategic point purchases.
Where Can You Redeem?
Points can be redeemed on a wide range of partners, including:
- Aer Lingus
- American Airlines
- British Airways
- Cathay Pacific
- Icelandair
- Japan Airlines
- Qatar Airways
The program also offers unique redemption options with airlines like Starlux and Royal Air Maroc.
Smart Redemption Strategies
Alaska’s stopover policy is a standout feature, allowing you to combine two destinations on one award ticket without additional points. For example, a round-trip to Europe could include a stopover in Iceland, effectively getting two trips for the price of one.
Fuel Surcharges: What to Watch Out For
Most partners avoid carrier-imposed surcharges, but British Airways, Hainan Airlines, and Icelandair do apply them. Factor this into your calculations when choosing redemption partners.
How Much Are Alaska Points Worth?
The value of Alaska Atmos Rewards points depends on individual redemption preferences, but a conservative estimate is around 1.5 cents each. However, strategic redemptions on partners like Cathay Pacific or Japan Airlines can easily yield over 2 cents per point.
Do Alaska Points Expire?
No, Alaska Atmos Rewards points do not expire as long as there is account activity (earning or redeeming) within every 24 months.
Earning Additional Points
Beyond purchases, earn Alaska points through co-branded credit cards:
- Atmos™ Rewards Summit Visa Infinite® Credit Card: Premium benefits, fast elite status earning.
- Atmos™ Rewards Ascent Visa Signature® credit card: Companion fares and basic travel perks.
- Atmos™ Rewards Visa Signature® Business Card: Business-focused benefits.
You can also transfer points from Bilt Rewards, adding another earning avenue.
The Verdict
Alaska Atmos Rewards is a strong choice for buying points, especially with the current bonus offer. The program’s flexible redemptions, stopover policy, and valuable partnerships make it a standout in the loyalty world. If you have a specific redemption in mind, crunch the numbers and take advantage of this opportunity.
