American Airlines has unveiled a raft of changes to its AAdvantage loyalty programme, including the ability for members to earn benefits before reaching Gold tier status.
The latest changes follow on from the AAdvantage programme being revamped earlier this year, with simplified elite qualification requirements.
In March 2023 the carrier will introduce new Loyalty Point Rewards (replacing the current Loyalty Choice Rewards), with members receiving perks after earning just 15,000 Loyalty Points – some 25,000 points before members attain Gold tier status.
Members will benefit from Group 5 priority boarding after earning 15,000 Loyalty Points, as well as being able to choose between one of two rewards – priority check-in, security and Group 4 boarding for one trip, or five preferred seat coupons.
In addition, members attaining the highest Executive Platinum tier status (200,000 Loyalty Points) will now continue to be able to unlock further benefits as they earn more Loyalty Points, including “systemwide upgrades, Admirals Club One Day Passes, trip credits, award rebates for flights purchased with miles and more”.
AA is also removing the 75,000 limit on miles which can be earned on a single ticket.
But going forward members flying on Basic Economy fares will only earn two miles per dollar spent, down from the current five miles per dollar spent. This changes comes into effect for tickets issued from January 1, 2023, for travel from March 1, 2023.
Some of the above changes – including the earlier earning of perks – are similar to those recently announced for Jetblue’s True Blue loyalty programme. The two carriers have been solidifying their relationship over the last year or so, with the launch of the Northeast Alliance.
Commenting on the news Vasu Raja, American’s chief commercial officer, said:
“We’re creating a more meaningful travel rewards programme for our AAdvantage members. Only our members will have access to everything American has to offer.
“Achieving status will unlock an even wider world of unique experiences with the airline and our partners. With these and other innovations to come, we are continuing to deliver on our commitment that travel is better when you’re an AAdvantage member.”