American Airlines recently announced some changes to the AAdvantage program that will take effect in 2016. Here is a summary of the changes to the program. For a more detailed look at the changes to come, click here.
Earning Award Miles Changes
Currently when you fly American and earn miles, you do so based on the distance flown. 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 and if you have AA elite status; the higher your status, the more you’ll earn. The breakdown is as follows:
5 miles/U.S. dollar – AAdvantage member
7 miles/U.S. dollar – Gold
8 miles/U.S. dollar – Platinum
11 miles/U.S. dollar – Executive Platinum
Earning award miles for travel on most flights marketed by partner airlines will be based on a percentage of the flight distance and the fare class purchased. AA states that exact calculations will be available in the future.
Award Redemption Changes
The existing award levels for award tickets redeemed on March 22, 2016 and beyond are being adjusted “due to changes to market pricing and demand”. AA states that “award levels on some routes, such as flights to Europe and other international destinations, will increase. Award levels on other routes, like flights to 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 for flights 500 miles or less.”
Earning elite status Changes
AA is making changes as to their elite status program. First, as of January 1, 2016, elite status will no longer be based on qualifying points but will be based on Elite Qualifying Miles (EQMs) or Elite Qualifying Segments (EQSs). Also, the membership year is also changing. Beginning with the 2017 membership year, elite status will be valid through January 31 of the following year.