**Excerpt:** American Airlines has announced that customers purchasing basic economy tickets will no longer earn miles or loyalty points starting December 17, 2025.
Key Points
– American Airlines will cease mileage and loyalty point earnings for basic economy tickets.
– Customers previously earned points on regular fares, but only higher-priced tickets will now qualify.
– The change is effective December 17, 2025.
– Basic economy customers retain benefits like one free personal item and in-flight snacks.
– The airline aims to encourage purchases of more expensive tickets amid recent financial losses.
Article
Policy Change Announcement
American Airlines has announced a significant change in its rewards program, stating that customers who purchase basic economy tickets will no longer earn AAdvantage miles or loyalty points. This policy is effective as of December 17, 2025. Previously, members of the AAdvantage program earned two miles and loyalty points for every dollar spent on regular fares.
Statement from American Airlines
In a statement to CBS News, American Airlines explained, “We routinely evaluate our fare products to remain competitive in the marketplace.” The airline emphasized that basic economy ticket holders will continue to receive one free personal item, one free carry-on bag, complimentary snacks, soft drinks, and in-flight entertainment.
Shift in Airline Strategy
The introduction of bare-bones fare options, including basic economy, has become a competitive strategy among major airlines over the past decade. These tickets typically come with limited perks, such as restrictions on seat selection and itinerary changes, and passengers with basic economy tickets are often the last to board flights.
Financial Context
American Airlines has faced financial challenges recently, reporting a loss of $114 million on $13.7 billion in revenue in its latest quarterly filing. Scott Keyes, founder of travel deals website Going.com, noted the airline’s attempt to balance basic economy fare availability while discouraging customers from opting for these lower-cost tickets.
Conclusion
As American Airlines implements this new policy, customers will need to consider their travel options carefully, weighing the benefits of more expensive tickets against the stripped-down offerings of basic economy fares.
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