Travelers who buy American Airlines basic economy fares will no longer earn AAdvantage miles or Loyalty Points.
WASHINGTON — American Airlines is making a notable change for its budget travelers.
Customers who purchase basic economy tickets will now no longer earn AAdvantage miles or Loyalty Points toward elite status.
The change, which went into effect Dec. 17, applies only to basic economy fares, which are the airline’s lowest-priced and most restrictive tickets.
In a statement announcing the update, the airline said it regularly reviews its fare products to stay competitive.
“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 airline confirmed. “Main Cabin fares continue to earn 5 AAdvantage miles per dollar spent.”
American customers who have elite frequent flyer status will still be eligible for domestic upgrades when flying on basic economy tickets, an American Airlines spokesperson told CNBC.
Basic economy fares, which became widespread across the airline industry over the past decade, typically come with trade-offs such as limited seat selection and little to no flexibility for changes without fees.
American Airlines’ latest move brings it closer in line with its competitors. Delta Air Lines already prevents basic economy travelers from earning SkyMiles or credit toward elite status. United Airlines still allows MileagePlus members to earn miles on basic economy tickets, although it generally does not permit carry-on bags for those fares. American initially had a similar carry-on restriction but reversed that rule in 2018.