MPM – Maximum Permitted Mileage

 

MPM – Maximum Permitted Mileage

Introduction

In airline ticketing, fare construction is not just about knowing the price; it’s about understanding the rules that govern airline pricing. One of the most important concepts in this regard is Maximum Permitted Mileage (MPM). MPM sets the upper limit on the distance a passenger can travel between two cities for a given fare. It ensures fair pricing, prevents route abuse, and maintains airline operational efficiency. For tourism students, mastering MPM is essential because it forms the foundation of accurate fare construction and is a key step in preparing for careers in airlines, travel agencies, and global tourism operations.

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1. Definition

Maximum Permitted Mileage (MPM) is the maximum distance allowed by an airline between an origin and destination city for a published fare.

• Expressed in miles or kilometers

• Prevents passengers from using longer, indirect routes at the same fare

• Ensures airline revenue protection and fare standardization

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2. Purpose of MPM

• Prevent route abuse: Stops passengers from paying less by taking longer routes.

• Standardize fares: Ensures consistency for the same city pair.

• Maintain airline efficiency: Longer routes cost more in fuel and operations.

• Foundation for fare construction: Used alongside TPM, EMA, and EMS checks.

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3. How MPM Works in Fare Construction

1. Identify origin and destination cities.

2. Check the published MPM for the city pair.

3. Calculate actual distance flown (TPM).

4. Compare TPM with MPM:

   • TPM ≤ MPM → fare is valid

   • TPM > MPM → check EMA (Extra Mileage Allowance)

   • TPM > MPM + EMA → apply EMS (Excess Mileage Surcharge)

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4. Rules & Guidelines

• MPM is published by airlines for international and domestic city pairs.

• Distance calculation is based on great circle distance (shortest path).

• Routing may allow direct or via hub flights.

• Multi-segment journeys require TPM check for each segment.

Conclusion

Maximum Permitted Mileage (MPM) is the backbone of accurate airline fare construction. It ensures that passengers pay a fair fare for the distance traveled while helping airlines maintain efficiency and revenue. For tourism students, understanding MPM is not just academic—it is practical knowledge that directly applies to airline operations, ticketing, and career opportunities in travel and tourism. By mastering MPM and its related checks (TPM, EMA, EMS), students gain the skills to construct fares correctly, advise passengers accurately, and excel in the aviation and travel industry.