american airlines
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american airlines The company announced this week that customers traveling on basic economy fares will no longer earn frequent flyer miles or points for elite status.
“We regularly evaluate our fare products to remain competitive in the marketplace. Customers who purchase basic economy tickets after December 17, 2025 will not earn AAdvantage miles or loyalty points toward AAdvantage status,” the company said. “Basic Economy customers will continue to receive one free personal item, one free carry-on bag, complimentary snacks, soft drinks and in-flight entertainment.”
A U.S. spokesperson told CNBC that Elite Loyalty members will continue to receive upgrades to first class on domestic flights with basic economy tickets.
Basic economy tickets are airlines’ cheapest but most restrictive fares and have been rolled out across the industry over the past decade. Customers generally cannot change tickets or reserve seats in advance without a fee.
The move comes as airlines across the board chase customers who are willing to spend more on a flight. American Airlines is lagging behind major rivals Delta Air Lines and United Airlines in the post-COVID-19 luxury travel boom.
American changes previously posted by X user JonNYC follow similar policies by competitors delta airlinessaid travelers on Delta Main Basic or Basic Economy tickets will not receive Delta SkyMiles.
united airlines Members of the MileagePlus loyalty program can earn miles on Basic Economy tickets, but there are other restrictions. Basic economy customers on most flights are not allowed to carry carry-on baggage.
American Airlines had similar restrictions after introducing basic economy fares, but lifted them in 2018.
southwest airlines This year, it introduced its first no-frills base fare, which allows customers to board last, receive seat assignments at check-in and earn miles for less than more expensive fares.
