Once the bane of those trying to fly for free, frequent flier blackout dates are quickly becoming a thing of the past.

        Delta Air Lines, which operates more than 90 percent of the local air traffic, this week joined other airlines allowing those who have earned enough miles to travel for free to use those miles on any date for either domestic or international flights.

        “I can think of at least once that I had to buy a ticket because of blackout dates,” said Nick Noble, a Miami University economics professor who has cashed in about four free tickets over the last five years.

        Starting in the early 1980s, frequent flier programs allowed travelers to receive credit for each mile traveled, and those credits, or miles, can be redeemed for free travel or upgrades to first class.

        Previously, Delta and other airlines had blacked out as many as 14 high-demand dates a year, such as holiday periods, for a standard free frequent flier ticket. (Those willing to spend up to double the amount of miles can fly whenever and wherever they wish).

        Not that the elimination of blackout dates guarantees someone flying for free whenever they choose. Airlines generally save only a few seats a flight for free travel, and the more popular the flight, the fewer free seats are available.

        “You might have the ability to book on that date, but it doesn't mean you're going to get it,” said Randy Petersen, publisher of Inside Flyer magazine, which caters to frequent flier program members. “But this is still a great move by the industry.”

        A check Thursday found seats available around Memorial Day, Labor Day and Thanksgiving.

        Delta officials said the blackout dates are lifted effective Feb. 1, although a ticket can be redeemed only 331 days in advance of the travel date.

        Those booking a free flight using frequent flier miles must still pay new security fees, $2.50 for each leg of a trip, when the ticket is issued.

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