Would you enroll your child in a frequent flyer program?

(Surkov Vladimir)

Indian carrier Kingfisher Airlines has launched a frequent flyer program for flyers as young as three years old, becoming the latest airline to try to tempt children (and parents) onto its aircraft.

Kingfisher's new Little Wings program allows children to earn King Miles points and even comes with a "life-like" passport which is stamped and autographed onboard the aircraft by the captain every time a member flies.

The points are added to the parents' account (meaning at least one parent must be a member of the grown-up program, King Club) and can be spent on flights at a reduced rate of 50% for child flights or toys such as PlayStations and Barbie dolls.

If they fly regularly, pint-sized guests can look forward to exclusive merchandise such as caps, T-shirts, bags, and wrist watches, up until the age of 12.

Although the idea of children in a frequent flying program sounds a little fantastical, keeping parents loyal through their children is one of the oldest tricks in the marketing book, so it's no surprise that some airlines have jumped on the bandwagon.

Emirates' Skysurfers program has been in existence since 2003 and is billed as the "coolest way to fly," with its own child-friendly website for the airline's younger guests and a dedicated TV channel on board.

Lufthansa operates JetFriends, a program for kids and teens to the age of 17, which provides an insight into the workings of the airline and offers all the benefits of the adults' Miles & More club.

The Matmid Kids frequent flyer program from El Al, meanwhile, offers specially designed membership cards and a booklet with discounts and entertainment suggestions tailored to the audience.

http://www.flykingfisher.com/