American Airlines has announced a series of updates to its AAdvantage loyalty program, which will impact both elite and casual frequent flyers. The Fort Worth-based airline is introducing new perks for earning Loyalty Points, along with the option for members to use miles for upgrades with partner airlines.
Addition of AAdvantage HotelsTM and AAdvantage EventsTM to Reward Program
Effective from March 1, 2024, the airline plans to continuously improve the program throughout the new program year, aiming to make loyalty with American more beneficial for AAdvantage® members. More information about these updates is available at aa.com/programchanges.
The AAdvantage® program now includes AAdvantage HotelsTM and AAdvantage EventsTM, offering members additional avenues to accumulate rewards swiftly. In the near future, the program will allow members to earn miles when they pay cash for upgrades to premium cabins.
Introduction of New Loyalty Point Reward Choice
A notable addition to the program is a new Loyalty Point Reward option, enabling members to gain extra Loyalty Points towards AAdvantage® status, starting at the 15,000 Loyalty Point Reward level.
The thresholds for attaining AAdvantage status and Loyalty Point Reward levels will remain unchanged for the upcoming qualification year, which begins on March 1, 2024, and concludes on February 28, 2025. Details on status and reward levels are provided on aa.com.
In terms of mileage redemption, American Airlines is enhancing the program with new options. AAdvantage Platinum Pro® members will soon have the ability to redeem miles for Flagship® First Dining passes, offering a luxury dining experience at the airport. Additionally, in 2024, customers will be able to use miles for upgrades with select airline partners.
AAdvantage® members will continue to have the option to use miles for various services including flights, upgrades, lounge memberships, hotels, car rentals, and more.
Later in 2024, American Airlines will roll out exclusive benefits for AAdvantage® members. These include complimentary same-day standby for earlier domestic flights, an extended six-month period to use Trip Credit for online travel cancellations, the purchase of Admirals Club® One-Day Passes and Flagship Lounge® Single Visit Passes, and a 24-hour hold option for flight bookings without charge.
Cancellation Policy Update for Basic Economy Tickets
Additionally, starting later this month, AAdvantage® members will have the ability to cancel non-refundable Basic Economy tickets and receive partial trip credit for a fee. The airline is committed to enhancing the exclusivity and rewards of the AAdvantage® program for its members.
As these new tweaks to the AAdvantage® program roll out, it remains to be seen how the flying public will respond, especially considering the mixed reception of frequent flyer programs in recent times. Will these changes soar to new heights of popularity or struggle to take off? Time will tell.