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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…
The past year has been quite strange as an American Airlines Elite. When I first decided to remain loyal to AA the reason was simple. I could continue to purchase the cheapest, longest mileage ticket, and still earn AAdvantage elite status. Then American played follow the leader and converted to a revenue based loyalty program.…
On my flight to Denver today I stopped in the Chicago O’hare H/K Admirals Club for a cup of coffee and stumbled upon a drink chit. I have often searched Admirals Club lounges trying to find one, but today was the first day I’ve ever been lucky enough to actually get one. In fact, there…
American Airlines is in the process of #goingforgreat! Well at least I think they still are… As part of that goal the airline is going to try to streamline the passenger experience. Ever since the US Airways integration in 2016 American Airlines’ hard product has been inconsistent to say the least. Specifically, the hard product offered…
Last year was unique. I switched jobs and temporarily decided to switch airline loyalty. Like the rest of American AAdvantage members, I was fed up with all of the “enhancements” to the AAdvantage program. I also realized my travel pattern changed with my new job. My travel became much more Midwest focused. So, I decided…
American Airlines is the most recent US airline to announce “basic economy” fares. Legacy domestic airlines continue to cite increased competition from low cost competitors as the reason behind these basic economy fares. American Airlines basic economy fares mirror those offered by United and Delta, which offer reduced benefits and increased restrictions. These basic economy fares…
American Airlines boarding procedures are among the most confusing of any domestic airline. Rather than using just group numbers, American first boards passengers based on class of service and elite status. The airline often lacks consistency among gate agents due to the complex boarding procedure. In early 2017, the boarding process became even more complicated…
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…
I am by no means George Clooney from “Up In The Air” when it comes to traveling, but I generally average 5 flights per months (60 flights for the year). That means I go through security at least 60 times, listen to at least 60 boarding announcements, and watch at least 60 safety demonstrations. One of…
