American Airlines AAdvantage

Program Overview

American Airlines AAdvantage began in 1981 as the first program of it's kind. Due to a large expanse of airline companies, American Airlines first came up with "loyalty fare" for repeat customers. This fare was soon changed to offer first class fare for free to members and their companions received an upgrade. Discounted coach tickets were also offered. The rest of the airline companies soon followed suit with their own frequent flyer programs.

Earning Opportunities

The most common way to earn miles is by purchasing an airline ticket. Participants can earn by flying on any of the following airlines: American Airlines, American Connection, American Eagle, Oneworld Alliance, British LAN Airlines, Malev Hungarian Airlines, Mexicana, Qantas Airlines, Royal Jordanian Airlines, Air Pacific, Air Tahiti Nui, Alaska Airlines, Brussels Airlines, EL AL, GOL, Gulf Air, Hawaiian Airlines, and Jet Airways. Donating to a partner charity will also earn AAdvantage miles. There are so many different ways to earn frequent flyer miles on this program, one could even earn by staying at a partner hotel, renting a car, going on a cruise, dining, financing a home, activating a certain cell phone, or buying a product from a specified retailer. There are even several credit card companies that will let you earn miles for every dollar spent.

Redeeming Opportunities

With AAdvantage miles, of course there is free airfare to be earned, but there are also upgrades to be made. A participant can purchase a coach or business class seat, and upgrade to first class with the earned miles. Miles can also be traded in for an annual membership with the Admirals Club, or the can be redeemed for newspapers, magazines, or other items from retail partners.

Transfer Opportunities

Unlike other frequent flyer rewards programs on other airlines, with AAdvantage fliers can not transfer their earned miles to another program.

Conclusion

American Airlines started the rush on airline customer loyalty programs. They began the first program, and it continues to be the world's largest.