If you’ve been collecting Asia Miles through Cathay Pacific, credit card partners, or everyday spending, you might be wondering how to actually use them for flights. The good news is—it’s pretty straightforward once you know the steps. Here’s a simple guide to help you turn those hard-earned miles into your next trip.
Before you start
-
Have your Cathay/Asia Miles account ready (or sign up).
-
Know the number of miles in your account.
-
Have a payment card handy for taxes and surcharges.
-
Have passenger details (full name as per passport, date of birth, contact email).
Step 1 — Create an account (if you don’t already have one)
If you don’t have a Cathay Pacific / Asia Miles account, sign up for free. Sign up here
Step 2 — Open the Cathay website
Go to the Cathay Pacific website. Click here
Step 3 — Log in
Sign in to your Cathay/Asia Miles account. Login here
Step 4: Select “Redeem Flights”
Click on “Redeem flights” in the booking menu once logged in.
Step 5: Enter Your Travel Details
Add your departure city, destination, travel dates, number of passengers, and cabin preference. Then click “Search flights”.
Step 6: Adjust If No Flights Appear
If no flights match, click “New search” to edit your details or try the suggested alternate dates to see more availability.
Step 7: Choose Your Flight
Browse the options, check the total miles and cash required at the bottom left, then click “Next”.
Step 8: Review Your Selection
Double-check the flight details, travel time, and cost breakdown before hitting “Next”.
Step 9: Enter Passenger Information
Fill in passenger names (exactly as shown on the passport), birth dates, and contact information. Then select “Next”.
Step 10: Select Seats (Optional)
Pick your seats now if you wish, or skip this step and choose them later. Then click “Next”.
Step 11: Confirm and Pay
Review the booking, confirm all details, add payment for taxes and fees, agree to the terms, and click “Redeem Now”.
Step 12: Booking Complete
Your flights are booked! You’ll receive a confirmation email with your itinerary and booking reference.
Step 13: Know Who You Can Book For
Award bookings can be made for yourself or up to five nominated travelers on your account. You can update your nominees if needed, but keep in mind that rules and limits apply.
Step 14: Be Aware of Airlines That Require Phone Booking
Most award bookings can be made online, but for these airlines you’ll need to call Cathay Pacific’s customer service:
-
Air Canada
-
Air New Zealand
-
American Airlines
-
Austrian Airlines
-
Bangkok Airways
-
Gulf Air
-
Lufthansa
-
Shenzhen Airlines
-
SWISS International Air Lines
Step 15: Book Early When Possible
Award seats open up to 360 days in advance. Planning and booking early increases your chances of finding availability, especially during busy travel periods.
Step 16: Contact Customer Service If Availability Looks Odd
If Cathay’s site shows no seats but another loyalty program displays availability for the same dates and flights, it’s worth calling Cathay Pacific customer service. Sometimes online award availability is temporarily delayed or restricted.
💡 Good to Know: Cathay Pacific Asia Miles Booking Tips
-
You can redeem Asia Miles for yourself or up to five nominated travelers.
-
Some partner airlines can’t be booked online—you’ll need to call Cathay Pacific Customer Service instead.
-
Award bookings open up to 360 days in advance, so the earlier you book, the better your chances for premium cabins.
-
If flights don’t appear on Cathay’s site but show up on another loyalty program, contact customer service—availability is sometimes delayed or restricted online.
✨ Pro Tip: Get the Best Value from Your Asia Miles
Not every redemption is equal. To stretch your miles further, consider:
-
Long-haul flights in Business or First Class for premium value
-
Booking during off-peak travel dates
-
Using Cathay Pacific and select partner airlines with lower surcharges
🌏 Your Miles, Maximized!
Booking flights with Cathay Pacific Asia Miles is straightforward once you know the process. By planning ahead and using your miles wisely, you’ll unlock more value—whether you’re flying solo, treating family, or planning your next big adventure.