If you’re part of the British Airways Frequent Flyer community—officially known as the Executive Club—you’ve probably come across two key terms: Avios and Tier Points. While Avios are the reward currency used to redeem flights and upgrades, Tier Points are what elevate your membership status within the Executive Club.
In this blog, we’ll break down exactly what Tier Points are, how they work, and how they help you climb the British Airways Executive Club membership tiers, unlocking exclusive travel benefits along the way.
What Are Tier Points?
Tier Points are points earned based on the flights you take. Unlike Avios, Tier Points can’t be spent—instead, they determine your membership tier within the British Airways Executive Club.
As a British Airways Frequent Flyer, the more Tier Points you earn within a membership year, the higher your status and the more benefits you unlock.
How to Earn Tier Points
You earn Tier Points based on:
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The distance of your flight
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Your ticket class (economy, premium economy, business, or first)
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The fare type and airline (BA and Oneworld partners qualify)
For example:
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A short-haul economy flight may earn 5–40 Tier Points
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A long-haul business class flight can earn 140–210 Tier Points or more
You can view the exact Tier Points per route using the British Airways Tier Point Calculator on their website.
British Airways Executive Club Membership Tiers
As a British Airways Frequent Flyer, you’ll move through four main Executive Club tiers:
🔹 1. Blue Tier (Entry Level)
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Requirements: None – you join here automatically
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Perks:
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Collect Avios and Tier Points
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Access to members-only deals
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Manage bookings and preferences online
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🟤 2. Bronze Tier
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Requirements: 300 Tier Points + 2 eligible flights
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Perks:
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25% bonus Avios on eligible flights
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Priority check-in and boarding
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Free seat selection 7 days before departure
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Recognition as a British Airways Frequent Flyer
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⚪ 3. Silver Tier
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Requirements: 600 Tier Points + 4 eligible flights
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Perks:
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Lounge access (including Business Class lounges)
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50% bonus Avios
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Free seat selection at booking
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Extra baggage allowance
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🟡 4. Gold Tier
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Requirements: 1,500 Tier Points + 4 eligible flights
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Perks:
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First Class lounge access
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100% bonus Avios
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Increased availability of reward seats
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Priority services at every stage of your journey
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Each tier comes with additional recognition and exclusive offers tailored to loyal members.
Why Tier Points Matter for the British Airways Frequent Flyer
While Avios give you rewards, Tier Points give you status. For a British Airways Frequent Flyer, earning Tier Points means:
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Faster airport processes (check-in, boarding, security)
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Access to luxurious airport lounges
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Free seat selection and additional baggage
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Enhanced customer service and recognition
Plus, once you achieve a tier, you’ll retain it for at least 12 months, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the benefits.
Tips to Maximize Tier Points
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Fly Business or First: Premium classes offer significantly more Tier Points than economy.
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Look for multi-segment flights: You can often earn more points by breaking long-haul trips into separate legs.
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Leverage Oneworld Partners: Flights with American Airlines, Qatar Airways, and other partners still earn Tier Points.
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Plan Tier Runs Strategically: Some travelers plan mileage or “Tier Point runs” to hit specific thresholds—especially near the end of their membership year.
Final Thoughts
For the dedicated British Airways Frequent Flyer, Tier Points are the key to unlocking a better travel experience. While Avios are great for booking reward flights, Tier Points are what get you through the priority line, into the lounge, and into the premium seats.
Climbing the Executive Club ladder—from Blue to Gold—not only makes your journey more comfortable but also adds a level of recognition and value that makes every mile flown feel even more rewarding.
So, the next time you plan a trip, don’t just think about where you’re going—think about how those flights are helping you level up your status.