American Airlines Improves Loyalty Program

American Airlines has redesigned its award-winning AAdvantage loyalty program, allowing business travellers to earn award miles based on the price of the ticket they purchased. The AAdvantage program will also make changes to how members qualify for elite status and introduce a new elite level in 2017.

“American Airlines is evolving AAdvantage to continue our tradition of having the best loyalty program in the world by rewarding our most loyal customers with the benefits they value the most,” says Andrew Nocella, American’s chief marketing officer.

Beginning August 1, 2016, American Airlines’ customers can earn award miles based on the price of the ticket they purchased and their elite status level. Award miles for travel on most flights marketed by partner airlines will be based on a percentage of the flight distance and the booking code purchased.

On January 1, 2017, the AAdvantage program will add a fourth elite level – Platinum Pro – for customers. Placed between Platinum and Executive Platinum levels, members will receive benefits, including complimentary auto-requested upgrades on all eligible flights within North America and between the U.S. and Central America, 9 award miles/U.S. dollar (80% bonus), two free checked bags, and oneworld Sapphire status. Elite Qualifying Dollars (EQD) will also be added to the elite-qualification requirements. Members can earn elite status by reaching the EQD threshold, and either the Elite Qualifying Miles (EQM) or Elite Qualifying Segments (EQS) requirement.

Later in 2017, AAdvantage members will see changes to how upgrade requests are prioritized along with new benefits for Executive Platinum members. Upgrade priority will be based on a 12-month rolling EQD total, sorted by elite status level. Executive Platinum members will be able to use their complimentary 500-mile upgrade benefits on AAdvantage award tickets for travel on American from Main Cabin to the next class. www.aa.com

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The Art of Business Travel is Asia-Pacific's leading portal for corporate travel news and views. We cover everything from airline routes and airport developments, to new hotels, meeting venues, loyalty schemes, and entertaining.