American Airlines is taking the next step in the evolution of its AAdvantage loyalty program, shifting to award miles based on the price of a ticket. The AAdvantage program will also make changes to how members qualify for elite status and introduce a new elite level in 2017.

“American Airlines is evolving AAdvantage to continue our tradition of having the best loyalty program in the world by rewarding our most loyal customers with the benefits they value the most,” said Andrew Nocella, American’s Chief Marketing Officer.

The changes take effect for travel from August 1, and will see members earn miles as follows on AA-marketed flights:
•AAdvantage members earn five miles per dollar spent
•Gold members earn seven miles per dollar spent (40 per cent bonus)
•Platinum members earn eight miles per dollar spent (60 per cent bonus)
•Executive members earn 11 miles per dollar spent (120 per cent bonus)

From January 1, 2017 a fourth elite tier will be added to the programme. Platinum Pro will sit between the Platinum and Executive Platinum levels, and will offer the following benefits:

•Complimentary auto-requested upgrades on all eligible flights within North America and between the US and Central America
•Nine award miles earned per US dollar spent
•Two free checked bag
•Oneworld Sapphire status

From the same date changes will also be made to elite-qualification requirements.