Divorce can feel a lot like air travel—riddled with turbulence, unexpected delays and the occasional baggage mishap. Amidst all the emotional strain, division of property, and custody arrangements, there is a lesser-known battleground that divorcing couples rarely think about until it's too late: frequent flyer miles. Even in non-divorce cases, rows over frequent flyer miles can lead to some rather intense court battles. So, given the high emotions and potentially high costs associated with these disputes, it is key that spouses work together to properly divide this marital asset.

Frequent flyer programs, initially designed to help individual airlines stand out following the industry's deregulation in 1978, have since evolved into valuable assets that are often overlooked—until divorce proceedings begin. Those seemingly insignificant points accumulated through flights, hotel stays, and credit card rewards are now considered shared marital assets, becoming part of the "who gets what" debate during the divorce proceedings. These miles could make the difference between a glamorous post-divorce getaway or a cramped middle seat in economy, so it's important to treat them like any other financial asset. Today, miles can be earned through a variety of sources: credit card spending, partner hotels, dining programs, car rentals, and even online shopping portals. This makes it essential to assess all possible sources of accumulated points during asset division. Even though miles may not always be transferable, they can be factored into the overall financial settlement. By recognizing their value and understanding the many ways they're earned, couples can navigate the division of frequent flyer miles to reach more informed and equitable decisions. Here are a few suggestions to keep you pointed in the right direction.