Skywards soars with three million members

The high-flying loyalty programme this week welcomed its three millionth member, reflecting Skywards' appeal to international jet-setters as well as its expanding reach due to Emirates Airline's growing route network. This year alone, Emirates brings six new destinations online - Venice, Newcastle, Sao Paulo, Ahmedabad, Toronto and Houston.

Brian LaBelle, Senior Vice President Skywards said: 'We are proud that there are now three million travellers enjoying the benefits of Skywards membership. It is a significant milestone and we hope to welcome more members onboard.

'The programme has grown tremendously since it was launched seven years ago, as we continually offer members new privileges and reward options, and invest in technology and services. We have some very exciting projects to roll out in the next few months, which will further enhance our member offerings so watch this space.'

Skywards makes it easy for members to earn and spend their Miles. Members can earn Skywards Miles through flights with Emirates, as well as through using products and services from Skywards' partners including other airlines, hotels, car rentals and other leisure partners worldwide. Miles can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, hotel stays, tours and other exciting rewards starting from as little as 5,000 Skywards Miles.

By far the most popular reward choice, members are using their Skywards Miles to redeem some 900 free flights and upgrades on Emirates each day.

Skywards also offers members several options to donate their Miles to various charitable causes. For instance, donated Miles are used to sponsor flights for medical evacuation programmes or for volunteer doctors to travel to less developed countries for charity work. Skywards supported charities include Sightsavers who work to combat blindness in developing countries, Emirates Foundation, which provides humanitarian, philanthropic aid and services for children in need, and the programme will soon work with SriLankan Cares, a cause committed to offering subsistence help to children in developing countries.

Skywards was launched in 2000 and to date has received 13 awards to its credit, including several from InsideFlyer magazine's Annual Freddie Awards - considered top accolades in the loyalty industry.