General process for registering flights/miles

[RocketMan]

I'm new to Frequent Flyer programs.

I'm interested to know the timing of events when registering flights/miles with a program. I'm flying tonight with Etihad and was advised to join the AAvantage program, which I just did. However, I had already performed a web check in for my flight shortly before I joined the program. Does this matter? The AAvantage site has a lot of information about making reservations with them in order to register miles etc. This doesn't apply when you have already purchased a flight through a third-party, and I can't see any information on how I would register my miles. Have I made a mistake and wasted any chance of using my miles for my upcoming flight?

I'm confused about the timeline for the process.

What are the triggers for registering miles? Who initiates the process?

Can someone explain (or point me to somewhere that explains) the overall process for Frequent Flyer programs. As a beginner, it would be good to have the background knowledge to get a better idea of the process.

Thanks

 

[Fantic125]

In your bookings you need to enter the FF account that you want the flight miles or points to be allocated to. This should be done as early as possible in the booking stage so if you have any status you may be able to get a better seat or other additional benefits (luggage allowance, etc).

The FF number can be entered when checking in at the airport (just ask at the check in counter before they start processing you). You can also use this method to change the account to which you want the miles to allocate to, but it must be done before the flight.

 

[Mwenenzi]

After a flight generally you can claim miles for that flight on the ffp web site and/or by fax, if the ff number was not in the booking.
But KEEP the boarding pass (and any other documentation you have received)

 

[MrHyde]

Also, you can only register flights to certain airline programs, not all. Each airline will have its own FF program to which you can register your points. In addition, you could also register the points with a partner airline - the rate depends on the airline and partner.

Details that may be relevant to you are published at Etihad Airways