Talk about one-two punch points inflation. Per report by MainlyMiles, Singapore Airlines is devaluing its award redemptions on Nov. 1st across the board by up to 20%. Furthermore, its partnership with UOB Infinite Thailand is nerfing the points transfer rate on Oct. 1st by 50%. With Singapore Suites already expensive, this year could be most people’s last chance to experience one of the world’s best First Class at a “value” price.
The most notable increase is a sweet spot getting nerfed from Singapore to Zone 10 (Africa, Middle East, & Turkey) on Business Class. Originally, the current rate is 56,500 miles for Saver awards. Starting November 1st, it will hike 20% to 68,000 miles/ticket
The second most notable increase are the Advantage rates on First Class & Suites. Across the board, it will increase 15%. For example, the current rate from Singapore to USA (West Coast) is 228,000 miles. Starting November 1st, it will hike 15% to 262,000 miles/ticket!
Here’s the one-two punch for Thailand readers. Similar to Emirates, United Overseas Bank announced a points transfer devaluation to Singapore Krisflyer. For example, if you have the UOB Infinite Card the current rate is every 2 baht spending points you can convert to 1 Krisflyer miles. Starting October 1st, it will hike 50% to every 3 baht spending for 1 mile
15% stacked with a 50% devaluation… for UOB Infinite Thailand, that’s a double whammy devaluation making it not worth it to redeem miles for Singapore Airlines especially if you want a double suite.
Overall, this is the annoying reality in this ever changing landscape of miles and points. Everything just keeps getting more expensive. The silver lining is that there’s still some time to lock in the old rates. If you have Singapore Airlines flights coming up, now is the time to do it before the price spikes.
Chai Bear World 