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Singapore Airlines is typically known for its low change and cancellation fees on award tickets. That's why we were surprised to see that Singapore has rolled out “promo” awards that don't allow changes, cancellations, stopovers, cabin upgrades, etc. The only benefit: the award price is cheaper.
Here's what you need to know before you consider booking Singapore Airlines promo awards.
What are Singapore Airlines Promo Awards?
Promo awards are the cheapest of the cheap when making award redemptions with Singapore Airlines and its KrisFlyer program. However, as the saying goes, “You get what you pay for.” While you will spend less in miles, you get fewer perks.
Above, you can see the comparison chart for Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer economy awards. Below, you can see the same comparison for business class awards.
In both instances, you'll note that Singapore Airlines promo awards don't allow stopovers — which is one of the best perks of the KrisFlyer program. Additionally, you cannot change or cancel the tickets — even if you're willing to pay. Thus, if you can't take the flight, you'll lose your miles. No date, time, route, or other changes/cancellations are possible at all.
Compare this to the saver awards. You'll pay a bit more in miles, but you now can cancel for $75 or make changes for just $25. These prices are the same for economy or business class. See here for more about fees to change/cancel award tickets. Additionally, Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer awards have free changes through March 2022, but these promo awards are not included in that policy.
Comparing Singapore Promo Awards to Spontaneous Escapes
Singapore Airlines also offers KrisFlyer “Spontaneous Escapes” awards. These are for last-minute award bookings and also have stricter rules about changes and cancellations. These awards are advertised in monthly offerings from KrisFlyer. Spontaneous Escapes were suspended through March 2022 due to the pandemic. However, Singapore's new promo awards have essentially the same rules.
Our Take
You can head to Singapore Airlines' website and book three different types of awards now: saver, advantage, and the new promo awards. The latter don't allow stopovers, changes, or cancellations. While you will get a cheaper price, flexibility in the age of the pandemic may trump this. If you know what you're getting into and are sure you will take the flight, then the new promo awards may work for you.
Are you willing to book promo awards, or are you not willing to give up flexibility on your award tickets?
The comments on this page are not provided, reviewed, or otherwise approved by the bank advertiser. It is not the bank advertiser's responsibility to ensure all posts and/or questions are answered.
I am looking at booking something with them but I will steer away from there promos. I will have to look more into there mileage tickets.
Good to know but half complete article. How about a few examples of the differences in miles needed for promo/saver/advantage award tickets?