The top frequent-flier awards go to….

The 2018 “Freddie” awards have been announced, an annual recognition of the world’s top airline and hotel loyalty programs.

Awards are based on votes cast by actual travelers and members of the loyalty programs. Voters judge the programs on five “best of” categories for hotel and air along with 1 “best of” category for credit cards. The awards are split globally among three regions: America’s, Europe/Africa, and the Middle East & Asia/Oceania.

2018 Winners – Americas

Airline

Program of the Year — Southwest Airlines – Rapid Rewards
Best Elite Program — American Airlines – AAdvantage
Best Promotion — Southwest Rapid Rewards
Best Customer Service — Southwest Airlines – Rapid Rewards
Best Redemption Ability — Southwest Airlines – Rapid Rewards
210 AWARD — Avianca – LifeMiles

Hotel

Program of the Year — Marriott Hotels – Marriott Rewards
Best Elite Program — Marriott Hotels – Marriott Rewards
Best Promotion — MGM – M life Rewards
Best Customer Service — Marriott Hotels – Marriott Rewards
Best Redemption Ability — Marriott Hotels – Marriott Rewards
210 AWARD — MGM – M life Rewards

Credit Card

Best Loyalty Credit Card — Southwest Airlines – Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card – Chase

The “Freddie” awards, first introduced in 1988, have become one of the most prestigious member-generated awards in the travel loyalty industry.  To see the full list of rankings for all world regions, click here.