American Airlines Announces Additional Benefits For Frequent Flyers

Also coming this year, all members of the airline’s loyalty program will be able to redeem miles for AAdvantage Events experiences. Members can currently earn miles and loyalty points for booking events, such as concerts with Ticketmaster, at the rate of 1 AAdvantage mile and 1 Loyalty Point on every $1 spent on standard and resale tickets (not including taxes and fees).The airline’s most loyal frequent flyers will soon be able to redeem miles to access American’s Flagship First Dining lounges ahead of eligible flights. According to the airline’s website, AAdvantage Platinum Pro status members will soon be able to take advantage of delicious menus and drinks from local chefs at each location. The first-class dining experience is currently available inside the airline’s Flagship Lounges at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Miami International Airport (MIA), and Dallas/Forth Worth (DFW)The oneworld Alliance airline is set to open another Flagship Lounge next year. A spokesperson for the carrier confirmed exclusively to SImple Flying that American is expanding its second transatlantic hub of Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) with the opening of the A-West Flagship Lounge and Admirals Club spaces in 2025.

What has already changed this year?
The carrier has been steadily overhauling its frequent flyer program over the first half of the year. WiFi has rolled out on all the airline’s Viasat-equipped narrowbody aircraft and is set to expand to all Viasat-equipped widebody aircraft this fall. The WiFi is ad-supported, but AAdvantage members can now redeem miles for an inflight WiFi session.Elsewhere, improvements have been made to encourage infrequent flyers to sign up for the airline’s loyalty program. As of this year, members can fly standby for free on an earlier flight when they make the request on the mobile app or through the airline website. Flight cancelations are also easier for AAdvantage members, who can cancel non-refundable Basic Economy tickets to receive a partial trip credit for a fee and enjoy six more months to use Trip Credit than non-members.

Previously announced changes are still to come, including redemption opportunities for upgrades on additional airlines and the ability to request systemwide upgrades online.