In August 2025, we saw the launch of Atmos Rewards , the new loyalty program of Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines. At the time, the program announced how it would eventually introduce the “choose how you earn” feature, whereby Atmos Rewards members can choose to earn points based on distance flown, price paid, or segments flown.

Well, the wait for this feature is now over, and Atmos Rewards has revealed the exact timeline with which this will be rolled out… we won’t have to wait much longer! Separately, I’ve covered how Atmos Rewards will introduce a cool new “communities” concept , and also plans to partner with more transferable points currencies .

We’ve seen so many airline loyalty programs go from awarding points based on distance flown to awarding points based on price paid. In most cases, this has resulted in a reduction in points earning, especially for those who don’t typically book very expensive fares.

Atmos Rewards (and Mileage Plan, as it was previously known) has long been committed to continuing to award points based on distance flown. However, the program is giving members more choice. With the new Atmos Rewards “choose how you earn” system , members can elect to earn points (both redeemable points and status points) based on distance flown, dollars spent, or segments flown. Specifically:

Beginning October 1, 2026, Atmos Rewards members will be able to select their preferred earnings style, though it will only apply for flights departing as of January 1, 2027.

Current Atmos Rewards members who do not make a selection will continue to earn based on distance flown, while new members who join as of 2027 will default to earning based on price paid. All members can change their earning choice once per calendar year for future travel.

Note that this system in no way impacts how members earn status points for credit card spending , as that’s remaining unchanged. Furthermore, Atmos Rewards elite requirements are remaining unchanged:

I should also mention that Atmos Rewards promised to improve points earning rates for premium cabin tickets on partner airlines when booked directly with those airlines. That was expected to be introduced as of later in 2026, though I haven’t seen any announcement yet about that updated timeline. It’s possible that it coincides with this being rolled out, or maybe not. As soon as I learn more, I’ll be sure to report back.