American Airlines will relaunch its AAdvantage loyalty program next year, awarding miles for dollars spent rather than distance flown.
Award redemption rates will be adjusted with some award levels increasing, while others will be decreasing. Additionally, American will simplify the elite qualification process.
In the second half of 2016, when traveling on flights marketed by American, members will begin earning award miles based on the price of the ticket purchased (base fare plus carrier-imposed fees, excluding government-imposed taxes and fees) and that member’s elite status level.
AAdvantage members will receive five miles for every U.S. dollar spent on the base fare and carrier-imposed fees. Gold members will receive seven miles, Platinum members will receive eight and Executive Platinum members will receive 11 miles per dollar spent.
AAdvantage president Suzanne Rubin said: "American Airlines has spent the last two years being singularly focused on integration. Now we’re at a point where we can begin to look ahead and lay the foundation for the future of the AAdvantage program to ensure we’re rewarding our most loyal customers with the benefits they value the most.
"We seamlessly integrated our programs in 2015, and we’re excited about the opportunities that the program will offer our customers in the years to come."
