Usually, I’m pretty skeptical of the benefits of joining airline clubs. But British Airways routinely comes out with fairly compelling reasons to become a member of theirs – and I’ve just seen another one. If you’re a British Airways Executive Club member, you can get a complimentary companion ticket on your next flight.

Now, if you’re not inclined to become a member of the BA club, and if you don’t fly BA regularly, it’s probably not worth it to join just to get the free companion ticket. But if you were even considering it and might actually fly BA often enough to take advantage of the other perks of membership, then this is a fabulous extra perk. Your main dilemma now will be deciding who to offer that free ticket to.

Do note that the free companion ticket must be used between Jan 15-Dec 15 of 2009, and even after you’re an Executive Club member you’ve still got to register to get this ticket. Also note that you’ll still need to pay those pesky fees & surcharges on the “free” ticket. (Which is another example that proves the old adage, “There’s no such thing as a free lunch.”) Read all the terms & conditions before you sign up.