American Airlines Updates and Elite Status Extension

Following the news and updates around the COVID-19 pandemic, many airlines were forced to suspend or reduce their daily operations. We have the latest information from airlines and hotels all around the world. Many frequent flyer programs are extending qualification for their elite statuses and more.

American Airlines Updates and Elite Status Extension

With many borders closed, global movement restricted and uncertainty around when services will continue. Many frequent flyer programs are helping their members and giving some extra perks, with American being one of the last airlines to announce changes. American Airlines finally announced its elite status expansion and some additional updates to the AAdvantage program. They will extend the elite AAdvantage elite status for one additional year until January 31, 2022. American Airlines will also reduce the qualification level for the current membership year. From the official announcement:

“We are grateful to our AAdvantage members and want to show them that loyalty is a two-way street. When people are ready to fly again, we will be there to help them reconnect with loved ones, friends and colleagues.” said Bridget Blaise-Shamai, Vice President of Customer Loyalty & Insights and President of the AAdvantage program

Changes that American Airlines is introducing:

• Elite status for AAdvantage members will be extended until January 31, 2022
• Elite status qualifications for 2020 will be reduced
• Admirals Club memberships purchased from American will be extended for 6 months
• Up to $400 special credits for future travel on American Airlines Vacations packages will be introduced for elite members
• Every dollar spent on an eligible AAdvantage co-branded credit card through the end of 2020 will count for one mile toward Million Miler status
• Award reinstatement fees will be waived for travel through September 2020

Updated elite qualification requirements

American Airlines has lowered AAdvantage elite qualification requirements for the year 2020. AAdvantage members will achieve status more easily during the current elite qualifying year through lower Elite Qualifying Dollar - EQD, Elite Qualifying Mile - EQM, and Elite Qualifying Segment - EQS requirements. Members who qualify for Executive Platinum status previously received a choice of one reward upon reaching 150,000, 200,000 and 250,000 EQMs. American now introduced a lowered EQM requirements in 2020 will make these rewards more attainable. All these changes will take effect by May 15, 2020.  

Waived award reinstatement fees for travel

American Airlines will be giving members more flexibility with waived reinstatement and change charges for awards booked by May 31, 2020. This will be valid for travel through September 30, 2020. Award travel booked on or after June 1, 2020, will now include free changes if made at least 60 days in advance.