Emirates has introduced a controversial policy that restricts children from accessing first class when tickets are redeemed using miles. The decision has sparked debate among travellers and frequent flyers.
New Loyalty Programme Rules
From August 15, 2025, Emirates Skywards updated its terms and conditions. Children aged eight and below are now ineligible for Classic Rewards and Upgrade Rewards in first class.
Cash Tickets Remain Unaffected
The restriction applies only to bookings made with miles. Children of all ages can still travel in first class if tickets are purchased with cash, making the rule unusual and inconsistent.
Website and Booking Concerns
Emirates’ website continues to allow miles bookings for ineligible children. This suggests that the system update has not yet been fully implemented. Existing bookings are expected to remain unaffected.
Industry Reactions
Aviation experts have called the policy unusual. Instead of banning children from first class entirely, the airline has only restricted those travelling on reward or upgrade tickets.
Questions of Fairness
Award redemptions often involve high mileage costs and surcharges, nearly matching cash fares. Critics argue that penalising children only on miles bookings feels unfair and inconsistent with Emirates’ premium image.
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