The Lufthansa Uptrip App – Explained
Uptrip is a loyalty app from the Lufthansa Group (Miles & More) that combines gamification with Web3 technology. Flights become digital collectible cards (NFTs) that you can scan or upload. You can then collect, trade, or complete collections and redeem them for rewards such as lounge access, upgrades, miles, or onboard Wi-Fi.
(Source: Uptrip, 2023)
Origins and Context
Uptrip was launched in spring 2023 by the Lufthansa Innovation Hub in Berlin. The project was designed as a complement to the existing Miles & More program, testing new technologies and playful engagement mechanics. Initially released as an MVP (Minimal Viable Product), it is now fully integrated into Miles & More – which, according to reports, has brought not only procedural changes but also a shift from a pilot project to an established offering.
Full integration means more professional workflows, greater reach, and a move from experimental concept to a regular part of the Miles & More ecosystem.
(Sources: Lufthansa Innovation Hub, 2023; Miles & More, 2024)
Target Audience – Younger, Digital, and Curious
The app targets a younger demographic – on average around ten years younger than typical Miles & More members (Source: Miles & More, LinkedIn post, 2024). By combining gamification with NFTs, Uptrip appeals to tech-savvy users who enjoy collecting and unlocking achievements.
Growth of Uptrip’s User Base
Exact user numbers are not shared regularly, so I looked back at older LinkedIn posts to get a sense of Uptrip’s growth over time:
- Spring 2023: ~20,000 users, 200,000 cards
- Late 2023: 70,000+ users, 1 million cards, 70,000 rewards
- Mid 2024: 100,000 users
- Current (2025): ~192,000 users and over 2.5 million cards
(Sources: Miles & More, LinkedIn posts, 2023–2025)
This clearly shows rapid growth. Current promotions – such as the Friends Fly Further referral contest – will likely accelerate this trend even more. Based on these numbers, I’ve also analyzed Uptrip’s estimated active user base.
The shift from an innovation lab project to a fully integrated Miles & More app strongly suggests Lufthansa’s intention to establish Uptrip for the long term. And with more than 36 million Miles & More members, there’s still huge synergy potential.
Structure & Rewards
Uptrip offers numerous themed collections – for example:
- Travel the World (different cities)
- Lufthansa Fan (aircraft types, events)
- Keep Connected (digital services)
A collection is considered complete when you’ve gathered all its cards. Rewards vary by set and can include free Wi-Fi, lounge passes, miles, or even elite status benefits.
Experimental with Mixed Results
Uptrip still has an experimental edge: new collections and special events are appearing more regularly, but not all are perfectly executed. Past examples include limited events with very few available spots, or announced collections (such as Senator Status) that were later canceled or scaled down – in the Senator case, into a smaller giveaway.
Despite this, the concept remains dynamic and adaptable, with frequent adjustments and new trials.
Conclusion
Uptrip is a promising – and potentially fun – addition to the Miles & More program. It brings fresh energy, opens the door to new technologies, and connects with a younger audience. Personally, I’m curious to see how the concept evolves – and what unique collections and rewards Lufthansa has in store next.
For latest information: Uptrip Website
