Donating Frequent Flyer Miles: How Airlines Let You Give Back
Put idle airline miles to work for charity flights by choosing an airline fund and donating online.
Yes, major airlines let you give frequent flyer miles to charity. Frequent flyer miles are loyalty points earned from flights and cards, and donation programs transfer them to nonprofit travel funds. You choose an airline program, pick a charity partner, and send miles from your account.
Small balances can still help, but minimums and charity lists differ by airline.
Verification note: Program terms and availability can change. This page was checked against linked sources on November 03, 2026.
How does American handle mile donations?
American Airlines routes AAdvantage gifts through Miles for Heroes. It supports the Gary Sinise Foundation, the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, and the Medal of Honor Foundation for military-community missions. According to the American Airlines Newsroom, members donate at least 1,000 miles.
Members with less can donate their full balance, with processing up to 48 hours. The same source notes gifts are not tax deductible because the IRS treats miles as a promotional gift rather than taxed income Miles for Heroes announcement.
What do Delta and United offer?
Delta runs SkyWish for SkyMiles members. According to Delta, members can split one transaction across up to five charities, including the American Red Cross, Make-A-Wish, and Habitat for Humanity SkyWish program details. United runs Miles on a Mission for MileagePlus members.
According to United, members give to invitation-only partner charities or to specific trip campaigns created by eligible groups. United generally requires at least 1,000 miles per donation Miles on a Mission FAQs.
How does Southwest handle point donations?
Southwest lets Rapid Rewards members donate through Points for a Purpose. According to Southwest, members log in, open Donate Points, and give to partners such as Make-A-Wish, American Red Cross, Airlink, and Team Rubicon Points for a Purpose donation page. The basic steps look similar across airlines:
- Log in to your airline loyalty account.
- Open the donations page and pick a listed charity.
- Enter the mile amount and confirm the transfer.
What should you check before you give?
Check your balance, the minimum gift, and the current charity list. Lists can change, and some campaigns support a specific trip rather than a general fund. Keep your confirmation email until the miles leave your account.
If your balance is low, start with the program where you already hold miles.