Which transportation company was the first to introduce a frequency-based loyalty program that awarded 'miles' based on distance traveled rather than just trip frequency?

Airlines, railway companies, and ride-sharing services compete fiercely for customer loyalty in the transportation industry. Loyalty programs have become sophisticated tools to retain customers and encourage repeat business. This trivia question tests your knowledge about a groundbreaking loyalty innovation that changed how travelers view transportation rewards. Can you identify which company pioneered this influential approach?

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American Airlines (AAdvantage program, 1981)
United Airlines (Mileage Plus program, 1983)
British Airways (Executive Club program, 1988)
Delta Air Lines (SkyMiles program, 1985)