Let’s face it — whether you’re chasing a business-class daydream to Paris or just need a few extra miles to top off your balance, figuring out how to buy Air France miles can feel like decoding the Da Vinci Code. But don’t worry, we’ve done the detective work for you — minus the trench coat and cryptic puzzles.
Air France’s Flying Blue loyalty program offers one of the more flexible and globally connected mileage options out there. The twist? Buying miles isn’t as straightforward as picking up a carton of almond milk. But when done right — especially during promo periods — buying miles can be a smart travel strategy.
Can You Buy Air France Miles? Spoiler: Yes, but There’s a Catch
First, let’s get the obvious out of the way: Yes, you can buy Air France Flying Blue miles. No, you don’t have to fly halfway to Brussels just to earn them. But here’s the nuance — while Air France makes miles available for purchase year-round, the value you get from those miles depends entirely on timing and purpose.
The standard rate is about 3 cents USD per mile (roughly the same as paying first-class prices for economy legroom). That’s why waiting for promotions is key. During these, Air France frequently offers bonus miles of up to 80%, which brings the cost per mile down significantly — sometimes to around 1.69 cents.
In other words, now you’re playing the mileage game with a full deck.
How to Buy Air France Miles: Step-by-Step Guide
You’ve made the decision — it’s time to strategically buy some miles. Here’s exactly how to buy Air France miles the right way:
Step 1: Create or Log Into Your Flying Blue Account
Don’t have one? Sign up — it’s free and takes less time than brewing a cup of coffee.
Step 2: Visit the Flying Blue “Buy Miles” Page
You must be logged in to see this section. Otherwise, you’ll be clicking around like it’s a digital scavenger hunt.
Step 3: Choose Your Miles
Select any amount from 2,000 to 100,000 miles. Keep an eye out for ongoing promotions — that’s when the magic happens.
Step 4: Complete Payment
You’ll pay in USD (or equivalent), and miles are usually credited within 72 hours. If commitment scares you, relax — you have 14 days to cancel your purchase.
When It Makes Sense to Buy (and When It Doesn’t)
Buying Flying Blue miles is like buying designer shoes on sale — only worth it if you already know where you’ll wear them. Here’s when it works well:
- You found a killer business-class award deal and need a few extra miles.
- You’re targeting a Flying Blue Promo Reward (offering up to 50% off flights).
- There’s a miles promotion with a big bonus attached.
- You’re topping off your balance for a specific trip (don’t buy miles just to feel rich in rewards).
Always check award availability before pulling the trigger. Buying miles with no redemption plan is like buying a gym membership in January — well-intentioned, but probably wasteful.
Other Ways to Earn Flying Blue Miles
If you’re looking into how to buy Air France miles, you should also know there are smarter — or at least cheaper — ways to earn them:
1. Fly With Air France, KLM, or SkyTeam Partners
Depending on your Flying Blue status, you can earn between 4 to 8 miles per euro spent. That means a nice dinner and a comfy flight can reward you — unlike that last budget airline experience you’re still emotionally recovering from.
2. Transfer from Credit Card Programs
- U.S. Cards: Transfer Amex Membership Rewards at a 1000:750 ratio.
- Canadian Cards: Transfer rates and bonuses vary.
- Marriott Bonvoy: 60,000 points = 25,000 miles (plus bonus miles).
- Stackable and strategic, this is often the cheapest way to boost your balance fast.
3. Use the Air France KLM World Elite Mastercard
This card earns Flying Blue miles directly and even gives you elite-qualifying XP. Translation: More perks, faster upgrades, and fewer middle seats.
4. Earn Through Partners
Stay in partner hotels, rent cars, or shop online through Flying Blue’s partner portals — basically, live your life and earn miles while doing it. That’s what we call productive adulting.
Buying Air France Miles During Promotions: A Sweet Spot Strategy
Here’s where things get spicy. Air France runs frequent mileage promotions that offer anywhere from 50% to 80% bonus miles. If you’re going to buy, this is when to do it.
Example:
- Buy 100,000 miles with a 70% bonus
- Pay $3,050
- Receive 170,000 miles
- Cost per mile: ~1.79 cents
That’s solid value — especially if you’re booking long-haul business class or using miles on a Promo Reward route.
Just don’t forget the fine print: promos are targeted, and rates may vary depending on your Flying Blue status and region.
Quick Tips Before You Buy
- Use a no-foreign-transaction-fee card (especially if you’re outside the U.S).
- Check award availability before buying miles
- Subscribe to the Flying Blue newsletter so you don’t miss bonus promos
- Track your cost per mile and redemption value — don’t just hoard for hoarding’s sake
The Bottom Line: Should You Buy Air France Miles?
If you’ve got a redemption goal in mind and can combine a bonus promo with a Promo Reward, buying Air France miles can be a great deal. Otherwise, prioritize earning through transfers or flights — or you may just be padding your balance without a purpose.
Remember, miles are a tool, not a trophy. They’re meant to be used, not hoarded like rare coins or vintage Beanie Babies.
From Earning-to-Earning Cash
Now that you know exactly how to buy Air France miles, you’re in control of your Flying Blue journey. But if plans change, and travel isn’t on the horizon anytime soon, those miles don’t have to sit there collecting metaphorical dust.
You can always choose to sell airline mileage through Cash For My Miles. We make it easy, fast, and secure — whether you’re selling a few thousand or unloading a first-class stash. Convert those unused rewards into real-world value in just a few clicks.
