Capital One is currently offering a 30% bonus when transferring miles to Japan Airlines Mileage Bank between February 1 and February 28, 2026. This limited-time deal effectively improves the transfer ratio, making it nearly 1:1. The usual rate is 4:3 (1,000 Capital One miles for 750 Japan Airlines miles), but with the bonus, you’ll receive 975 JAL miles for every 1,000 Capital One miles.
Why This Matters
This is significant because Japan Airlines Mileage Bank is the only major transferable points currency partner for Japan Airlines in the US, besides Bilt Rewards. While not always the most straightforward program, JAL Mileage Bank can offer valuable redemption options, especially for first and business class travel on Japan Airlines and its oneworld partners.
Key Benefits of Japan Airlines Mileage Bank
- Early Award Access: JAL releases award seats 360 days in advance, giving you the earliest possible access to premium cabin availability.
- Flexible Routing: The program allows multiple stopovers when using oneworld partner awards, increasing travel flexibility.
- Competitive Redemption Rates: JAL often offers lower redemption rates than some partner programs, though accruing points can be challenging.
Restrictions to Consider
Japan Airlines Mileage Bank has strict rules on who can redeem miles: only family members (by blood or marriage) are eligible. This is a crucial detail to review before transferring.
Is the Bonus Worth It?
While the 30% bonus improves the transfer ratio, it’s not necessarily a groundbreaking deal. The 1:1 ratio is more in line with what the exchange should be, rather than an exceptional opportunity. However, if you have a specific redemption in mind, the bonus makes a transfer more worthwhile.
The Bottom Line
Capital One’s 30% bonus on Japan Airlines transfers is a useful opportunity for those planning to redeem through JAL Mileage Bank. It’s not a speculative transfer worth pursuing without a clear use case, but it does bring the transfer ratio to a more reasonable level. Consider this bonus if you’re strategically accumulating miles for Japan Airlines travel.
