What is the JAL Mileage Bank program?
JAL Mileage Bank (JMB) is Japan Airlines' frequent-flyer program — the loyalty scheme that lets you earn miles and spend them on award flights, upgrades and partner rewards. If you haven't joined yet, start by reading how to open a JAL Mileage Bank account (it's free), then come back here to fill it with miles.
Is JAL Mileage Bank a credit card?
No — this is a common mix-up. JAL Mileage Bank is a free frequent-flyer program, not a credit card. Separately, Japan Airlines offers co-branded “JAL Card” credit cards that earn miles on everyday spending, but you do not need any credit card to join JMB or to collect miles. The membership and the credit card are two different things.
How to earn JAL Mileage Bank miles
1. Fly with Japan Airlines
The most direct way to earn is to fly JAL and add your JMB number to the booking. Miles are based on the route and fare class you buy.
2. Fly oneworld and JMB partner airlines
JAL is a member of the oneworld alliance, so eligible flights on partners such as British Airways, Qatar Airways, American Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Qantas and Finnair can also credit miles to your JMB account. Just enter your JMB number when you book or check in.
3. Credit cards and transfer partners
You can also earn through co-branded JAL Card products and, in some markets, by transferring flexible points from partner programs into JMB. This is a popular way to top up a balance without flying.
4. Shopping and everyday spending
JAL's shopping portals and partner offers let you collect miles on purchases, hotels and other everyday spending — small amounts that add up over time.
Can you use Asia Miles on Japan Airlines?
Yes. Because JAL belongs to the oneworld alliance, Cathay Pacific's Asia Miles can be redeemed for Japan Airlines flights, and JAL flights can usually be credited to Asia Miles as well. Each program has its own award chart and rules, so compare them — but if JAL is your main airline, earning directly into JMB is normally the simplest path.
When do JAL miles expire?
JMB miles are valid for 36 months. They expire at the end of the 36th month after you earn them, and Japan Airlines generally does not reinstate expired miles. In practice, plan to use what you earn within three years so nothing lapses.
Best ways to use your JAL miles
JMB miles shine on oneworld award tickets and premium-cabin redemptions. For the full redemption playbook — including how to search and book award seats — see our beginner's guide to JAL Mileage Bank. And if you're just starting out, open your JMB account first.
Frequently asked questions
How do I earn JAL miles? Fly JAL or its oneworld partners with your JMB number on the booking, use co-branded cards or transfer partners, and collect through shopping portals.
Is JAL Mileage Bank a credit card? No — it's a free frequent-flyer program. JAL Card credit cards are a separate product.
Can I use Asia Miles on Japan Airlines? Yes, via the oneworld alliance you can redeem Asia Miles for JAL flights (and credit JAL flights to Asia Miles).
Do JAL miles expire? Yes, after 36 months — use them within three years.