It’s hard to believe we’re nearly half way through 2017. For the first quarter of the year I was on pace to earn AAdvantage Platinum Pro status (new in 2017), but as the year progressed my travel has slowed considerably. Given my current EQD and EQM I’ll be lucky to earn AAdvantage Platinum organically. Since…
Dining programs are often the most easily overlooked way to earn extra miles or points. Most dining rewards programs are free and easy to use. Anyone new to miles and points game should definitely look into their preferred reward program’s dining program. For this example I’ll review the AAdvantage Dining program, but most dining rewards…
A short while ago everyone’s favorite travel blogger, ThePointsGuy, wrote about his issue with American Airlines’ new EQD requirement. Essentially ThePointsGuy’s issue with American’s new EQD requirement is with Special Fares. Because he’s booking through Amex travel, he’s earning EQD based on miles flown rather than the cost paid for his tickets. Over time he figures he’ll end…
Let’s take a quick break from Credit Card Madness to explain a few reasons why I’m loving American Airlines AAdvantage 2017. I was extremely disappointed when American followed Delta and United and switched to a revenue based loyalty program. In the past, I loved American because the little guy was effectively equal to big spenders. I could…
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…
Currently, there are four levels of elite status offered through the American Airlines AAdvantage frequent flyer program. AAdvantage members can earn status by flying a certain number of miles or segments and spending a certain amount of money with the airline in a calendar year. American’s lowest elite level, AAdvantage Gold, is by far the easiest…
Each year Qatar Airways holds a massive fare sale for various routes in their network. Unlike other fare sales, this one is typically not matched by other OneWorld carriers which means you must purchase flights on Qatar to qualify for the sale. The annual Qatar Airways Travel Festival sale went live earlier today (Jan 8)…
Forgive me if this turns into a bit of a ramble, but I’ve recently come to the realization that earning American Airlines Elite Status by Mileage Running is not dead, it is just different now that AA has implemented a revenue requirement to the AAdvantage program. Pre-2017 Mileage Running Prior to American Airlines implementing a revenue…
As many American Airlines travelers are well aware there are several major changes coming to the AAvantage program beginning on January 1, 2017. One of the lesser discussed changes is in regards to the earning period for 500-mile upgrade certificates or “stickers.” Oddly enough, the 500 mile upgrade earning period does not close until January 31,…
While on the segment run I realized just how costly this hobby can be a why it is important to be mindful of incidental fees while trying to squeeze in those last few flights of the year to attain status. Transportation and/or Parking During The Mileage Run One of the most overlooked costs associated with…
