Azul raises fees for point‑based ticket issuance, Diamond tier customers hit hardest

Brazilian airline Azul has increased the fees charged for domestic ticket issuances made with loyalty points when the flight is booked less than 120 days in advance for a third party. The new fee is R$ 69.90 for all program tiers – Topázio, Safira and Diamante – up from R$ 67.90, R$ 63.90 and R$ 59.90 respectively. The change represents a R$ 10 rise per issuance for Diamond members, the group that traditionally flies most frequently.

The adjustment is already in effect and has drawn criticism from program participants, who argue that it diminishes the savings normally gained from using accumulated miles. Azul notes that it continues to offer elite perks, such as free flight‑anticipation for Topázio members, and points to recent improvements in other benefits. Some Itaú bank customers can offset costs with a near‑R$ 300 complimentary benefit.

Consumer groups and frequent flyers are urged to plan redemptions earlier to avoid the higher charges and to compare alternative loyalty programs for better value.