Starting in 2016, we'll make changes to the American Airlines AAdvantage
174; program. We're evolving to build a rewarding program for all members
while giving our best customers access to our most exclusive benefits. These
updates will roll out in phases over time. We'll keep you updated as we
implement these changes.
Earning award miles
In the second half of 2016, award miles earned from flying will be
calculated differently to reward you when you spend more. When traveling on
flights marketed by American, you'll earn miles based on the price paid for
your ticket (base fare plus carrier-imposed fees, excluding any government-
imposed taxes and fees), multiplied by five (5) for AAdvantage® members
. If you reach elite status, you’ll earn award miles at higher rates. Plus,
as a Citi® / AAdvantage® credit cardmember or an AAdvantage®
AviatorTM MasterCard® cardmember, you will continue to earn additional
bonus miles on American Airlines purchases when you use your AAdvantage
174; credit card.
How award miles will be calculated »
Earning award miles for travel on flights marketed by partner airlines will
be based on a percentage of the flight distance and the fare class purchased
. We'll have more information about earning on partner airlines in 2016.
Until the new award mile earning structure takes effect, you'll continue to
earn miles based on the distance flown. In addition, we're extending our
2015 AAdvantage bonus miles promotion that allows you to earn more bonus
miles when you purchase and fly on a First or Business Class ticket on
American and select airlines.
2015 AAdvantage bonus miles promotion »
Award redemption changes
We're adjusting existing award levels for award tickets redeemed on March 22
, 2016 and beyond due to changes to market pricing and demand. Award levels
on some routes, such as flights to Europe and other international
destinations, will increase. Award levels on other routes, like flights to
popular destinations in Mexico, the Caribbean and Central America, will
decrease. Plus, you'll be able to redeem MileSAAver® awards for as low
as 7,500 miles one-way (plus any applicable taxes and carrier-imposed fees)
for flights 500 miles or less.
More about award level changes on American »
More about award level changes on partner airlines »
Earning elite status
On January 1, 2016, elite-qualifying points will be removed from our
qualifying structure, and elite status will be based on Elite Qualifying
Miles (EQMs) or Elite Qualifying Segments (EQSs). The membership year is
also changing. Beginning with the 2017 membership year, elite status will be
valid through January 31 of the following year.
How you'll earn elite status in 2016 »
We'll continue to keep you updated as we get closer to implementing these
changes to the AAdvantage program. We appreciate your continued loyalty.
Sincerely,
Suzanne L. Rubin
President, AAdvantage Loyalty Program
