We’re just over two months into 2017 and have now had two months to earn miles under the new “enhanced” AAdvantage program. So far, the sky has not fallen and the world has not ended. Yes, the new EQD requirement is frustrating. I have already flow 19,200 EQM and only have $1,200 EQD. It seems I will out earn the EQM for the level of status I will obtain in 2017. That being said, thanks to American’s Special Fares and generous earning rates on partner airlines, I think I can earn enough EQD to qualify for at least Platinum Pro in 2017. Which brings me to the oh so subtle change made to the AAdvantage program.
A Shortened Status Period
See while everyone was out worrying about EQD, Platinum Pro, “enhanced” award chart, and adjusted redeemable mile rates, American slid in a small change without many people, including myself, noticing.
In the past status earned in a calendar year was valid until February 28 of the following year. If you earned status at any point in 2015 that status would remain valid until February 28, 2017! In fact, my status earned in 2015 (Platinum) just expired today. After the 2015 calendar year, status earned now remains valid until January 31 of the following year. Apparently, AA confirmed the change via ThePointsGuy in November 2015. Personally, I remember when AA announced all of these enhancements and I was more worried about earning status than when it was expiring.
That being said, I received my 2017 AAdvantage card in the mail just the other day. When I looked at the card (love the new design btw) I noticed the valid through date of 1/31/18. It seemed odd at first. I immediately reached out to @xJonNYC on twitter for clarification. Jon confirmed and sure enough American slipped the change into the press releases that came shortly before the end of 2015.
Side note: If you are an American frequent flyer, be sure to follow @xJonNYC, he is a wealth of knowledge.
Final Thoughts
Although losing just 28 days of status may not seem like a huge deal, keep in mind you potentially lose those benefits during arguably the best (cheapest) time of the year to book travel. When booking those tickets your current status is the only thing that matters. Platinum and above American elites can select MCE seats at no additional charge at the time of booking. That simple benefit could help you save hundreds in seat assignment fees on long-haul flights. Just note, once your status expires, you won’t be able to change your seats on the website or app for free.
Sure, the change is minor. Yet, it’s a change I wasn’t fully aware of until my 2017 AAdvantage card showed up. Chances are this change surprised many AA elites when their 2017 membership cards arrived as well.
