Point Me To First Class 116. The Award Travel Trick Hiding in Plain Sight: Fifth Freedom Flights
May 19, 2025
Discover the hidden gem of fifth freedom flights, a unique airline route that can unlock exceptional award space and experiences. Learn how this often-overlooked option allows airlines to connect two foreign countries for incredible travel opportunities. Dive into the historical context of these flights and explore specific routes across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. Whether you're a frequent flyer or just planning your next trip, fifth freedom flights could be the secret to scoring better premium cabin tickets!
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Understanding Fifth Freedom Flights
- The fifth freedom of the air grants airlines the right to fly between two foreign countries on a journey originating or ending in their home country.
- This freedom enables routes where airlines operate between two foreign countries, unlike the usual routes tied to their home base.
Common Flight Operations vs Exceptions
- Airlines generally operate flights only between their home country and others, not between two foreign countries.
- Fifth freedom flights are rare exceptions where airlines fly between two foreign countries on a single flight number.
KLM's Buenos Aires to Santiago Flight
- KLM operates a fifth freedom flight between Buenos Aires and Santiago using the same flight number as its Amsterdam to Buenos Aires service.
- Passengers can book just the Buenos Aires to Santiago segment despite KLM being a Dutch airline.