American Airlines Revamps Frequent-Flyer Program, Changes How Elite Status is Earned

American Airlines announced major changes to its AAdvantage frequent-flyer program on Tuesday.

Perhaps recognizing that the system of Elite Qualifying Miles, Elite Qualifying Points, and Elite Qualifying Segments had become too complicated, the airline is replacing those three metrics with Loyalty Points.

“We’re thrilled to introduce updates to the Aadvantage program that will make it simpler for you to earn status,” said Alison Taylor, the airline’s chief customer officer, in a note to members.

AAdvantage members will earn one Loyalty Point for each mile attained.  The airline is opening up new ways to earn elite status by making it possible to earn Loyalty Points with purchases on AAdvantage credit cards and travel on qualifying airlines including members of the oneworld alliance and on JetBlue Airways..  Elite bonuses earned from flying on American will yield additional Loyalty Points.

Achieving elite status will be more straight forward.  AAdvantage Gold status will require 30,000 Loyalty Points, while Platinum will require 75,000.  The newest tier in the AAdvantage program, Platinum Pro, will require 125,000 points, while reaching Executive Platinum will require 200,000.

The new concept will launch in March 2022.  Going forward, members will qualify for status from March through February instead of based on flying during the calendar year.

Current elite status valid through January 31, 2022 will be extended to March 31, 2022 to accommodate the launch of the new system.

(Photo: Accura Media Group)