Singapore Airlines and HSBC Make Elite Status Easier with New Spend-Based Loyalty Programme

Published on December 8, 2025

Singapore Airlines has teamed up with HSBC to offer a revolutionary new pathway to elite status perks. As part of this collaboration, travellers now have the opportunity to fast-track to KrisFlyer Elite Gold status through everyday spending, not just flying. This new offer targets frequent travellers who may not always be able to fly regularly but still want to enjoy the perks of premium travel, such as lounge access, priority boarding, and more.

This change in the KrisFlyer loyalty programme marks a significant departure from traditional frequent-flyer models, which typically reward members for the number of flights or miles flown. Now, through the HSBC Star Alliance Credit Card, customers can earn status based on their spending habits. This is an exciting development for travellers, as it makes elite status more attainable for a wider audience, not just those who travel frequently.

How the New Loyalty Model Works

The new partnership between Singapore Airlines and HSBC allows credit card holders to earn KrisFlyer Elite Gold status by meeting a spend threshold of USD 4,000 within 90 days of opening their HSBC Star Alliance Credit Card account. Those who reach this spending goal are granted immediate access to elite benefits, including priority check-in, priority boarding, additional baggage allowance, and access to over 1,000 Star Alliance lounges worldwide, regardless of the cabin class they are travelling in.

In addition to the Elite Gold benefits, new cardholders can earn up to 50,000 KrisFlyer miles when they apply and are approved for the card during the promotional period between November 17 to December 28, 2025. This bonus is a significant incentive, especially for those looking to book flights with Singapore Airlines or its Star Alliance partners.

The Shift in Airline Loyalty Programmes

Traditionally, airline loyalty programmes like KrisFlyer rewarded frequent flyers based on the number of flights or miles flown. This often meant that only those who travelled regularly for business or personal reasons could enjoy the top-tier perks associated with elite status.

However, this trend is changing. The new partnership acknowledges that modern travel patterns have evolved. Many passengers now combine business and leisure travel, taking fewer but longer trips. Spending-based loyalty programmes cater to these types of travellers, who may not have the time or desire to travel frequently but still seek premium travel experiences.

The inclusion of spend-based pathways in the KrisFlyer programme is designed to reflect changing customer behaviour and the need for greater flexibility in how loyalty is earned. Travellers can now achieve top-tier status through their regular spending, which is an attractive option for those who are less frequent travellers but still want to enjoy the benefits that come with elite status.

Why This Change Matters for Travellers

For frequent travellers, especially those who rely on mixed business-leisure trips, this change means faster access to benefits that can make their journeys smoother and more enjoyable. Lounge access, for example, can transform an airport layover into a relaxing experience, and priority boarding reduces the stress of long queues. These perks can elevate the entire travel experience, even when flying on economy tickets.

For occasional travellers, especially those who have high spending in other areas like shopping or dining, this model allows them to earn elite status without the need to log hundreds of air miles. It provides them with the flexibility to gain access to premium benefits without having to travel as frequently, which can be particularly appealing to those who might travel once or twice a year but want to enjoy VIP treatment during their trips.

The collaboration between Singapore Airlines and HSBC helps travellers meet their needs for comfort, convenience, and flexibility. It makes it easier for a broader group of consumers to experience the rewards of loyalty without the time commitment traditionally required by frequent-flyer programmes.

Additional Benefits and Considerations

Along with the new status earning pathway, HSBC Star Alliance Credit Cardholders also enjoy a variety of travel rewards on everyday purchases. These rewards can be converted into KrisFlyer miles, which can be used to redeem flights, upgrades, and other travel experiences. Additionally, members have access to Star Alliance’s global network, allowing them to enjoy premium benefits across multiple partner airlines.

While this new model has clear advantages for many, it’s important for potential applicants to be aware of the eligibility requirements and restrictions. The promotion is available only to those who apply and are approved for the HSBC Star Alliance Credit Card during the current offer window (November 17 to December 28, 2025). The spending requirement of USD 4,000 within 90 days is a significant threshold, and the card’s terms and conditions should be reviewed carefully before signing up.

A More Accessible Path to Premium Travel

The collaboration between Singapore Airlines and HSBC is reshaping the concept of loyalty in the airline industry. By allowing customers to earn elite status through everyday spending, the partnership opens up new possibilities for travellers who may not have the time or desire to fly often but still seek premium benefits.

This shift aligns with the changing travel habits of today’s consumers, who value flexibility and convenience over traditional loyalty models. The ability to earn elite benefits with minimal flying gives travellers the opportunity to enjoy perks such as lounge access, priority boarding, and extra baggage without the need for frequent air travel.

As loyalty programmes continue to evolve, this new approach is set to transform the way airlines engage with their customers, making elite status more attainable and rewarding for a broader range of passengers.