American Airlines Cuts Loyalty Points on Basic Fares

American Airlines has officially updated its AAdvantage loyalty program so that passengers who purchase basic economy tickets will no longer earn miles or Loyalty Points toward elite status. The change marks a clear shift in how the airline rewards its lowest fare customers.

What has changed for flyers

Under the revised rules, basic economy flights no longer generate any mileage or status credit.

Until now, such fares allowed AAdvantage members to earn miles and Loyalty Points, though at a lower rate than standard economy or premium tickets.

American will continue to include certain standard features with basic economy tickets, such as a free personal item, a free carry-on bag, complimentary snacks and soft drinks, and access to in-flight entertainment. However, the loss of mileage accrual significantly reduces the long-term value of these fares for frequent flyers.

Industry shift in loyalty strategy

The change reflects a broader reevaluation of fare products across the airline industry, where loyalty rewards are increasingly concentrated among higher-paying passengers. Airlines are using loyalty benefits to steer customers toward standard economy, premium economy, and business class fares that generate higher revenue.

American’s updated policy now looks more similar to Delta’s approach, which also limits earning potential on basic fares. United still offers some mileage credit on its basic economy tickets, although those fares often come with tighter restrictions, reinforcing how airlines are experimenting with different ways to balance price and perks.

The announcement also follows the launch of a new loyalty product called the AAdvantage Pass. Priced at $5,000, the bundle includes 100,000 AAdvantage miles, instant Gold status, and 15,000 Loyalty Points, positioning loyalty benefits as something customers can now directly purchase rather than earn solely through flying.

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