This won’t fly.
American Airlines fliers are fuming after the carrier cut its program awarding bonus miles and other travel perks to passengers who purchase a basic economy ticket.
According to the airline’s website, the policy change is in effect for travelers who booked basic economy tickets on or after Dec. 17 at 12 a.m. CT.
Previously, those enrolled in the AAdvantage program earned two miles and loyalty points for each dollar spent on a regular fare — and now, they’ll only get those points if they opt for a more expensive ticket.
Industry watcher JonNYC shared the news on X — inciting outrage from many loyal American Airlines customers.
“I’ve been loyal to you for work travel but this year has been terrible and this is just the nail in the coffin,” one fumed. “I’m done with you and taking my work travel somewhere else, like United.”
“Please tell me this is not true,” another wrote. “I, too, have been loyal to AA and have maintained my gold status even after my work travel became null, but now I won’t be able to do it. I relied on your basic fares and the surveys to keep me there. Forget marketplace, think about your customers.”
“Interesting…no loyalty to customers? That’s fine, Delta and United are great options,” a user snarked.
“This is a garbage response and change. You will lose loyalty,” one wrote.
The Post has contacted American Airlines for comment.
It comes as more and more airlines have started to strip perks from their cheapest air fares, pushing customers to spend more on a ticket that offers more perks and rewards.
Delta Air Lines does not offer SkyMiles to those flying basic economy, and United Airlines limits basic economy flyers to one personal item.
American first introduced basic economy fares in 2017 as the lowest-priced option for the airline which comes with added restrictions such as boarding group placement and eligibility to upgrade.
“We routinely evaluate our fare products to remain competitive in the marketplace,” American Airlines said in a statement.
“Basic Economy customers will continue to receive one free personal item and one free carry-on bag, free snacks, soft drinks and in-flight entertainment,” the post continued. “Main Cabin fares continue to earn 5 AAdvantage miles per dollar spent.”
The airline explained that customers who purchase a basic economy ticket will not earn AAdvantage miles or Loyalty Points towards AAdvantage status.
However, elite loyalty members who booked basic economy tickets will remain eligible for first-class upgrades on domestic flights, according to CNBC.
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