American Airlines miles (AAdvantage) are earned from flights, credit cards, and partners, and can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and more.
Earning
- Flying American and partner airlines.
- Co-brand credit cards.
- Hotels, rental cars and shopping.
Redeeming
AAdvantage award flights start at about 7,500 miles one way for short domestic trips. Prices vary with demand.
Status
Elite status uses Loyalty Points.
Expiration
AAdvantage miles don’t expire with qualifying activity every 24 months.
Tip
Compare with cash prices.
Mile earning and redemption basics
American Airlines AAdvantage miles are earned on flights based on the fare paid. Since 2023, members earn 5 miles per dollar spent on base fare and carrier-imposed surcharges for most tickets, with status holders earning bonuses. Miles can also be earned with co-branded credit cards, shopping portals, hotels and dining.
- Elite status (Gold, Platinum, Platinum Pro, Executive Platinum) is earned through Loyalty Points. Gold requires 40,000 Loyalty Points per year and Executive Platinum 200,000.
- Award tickets are priced by flight and date, with saver award levels in the US starting from about 7,500 to 30,000 miles one way in many markets.
- Miles do not expire as long as there is activity in the account at least once every 24 months.
Value tip
The value per mile typically runs around 1 to 2 cents. Compare award prices with cash fares and check taxes and fees. Transfer partner programs can add miles. Use the airline’s award search and book early, as saver availability is limited on peak dates.
Mile earning and redemption basics
American Airlines AAdvantage miles are earned on flights, with credit cards and partners. Since 2024, earning on flights is based on spending: 5 miles per dollar for base fare and carrier charges for members, with more for elite status. Redemption starts at around 7,500 miles one way on some short routes, and award prices vary by date.
Value tip
Miles are usually worth about 1.3 to 1.7 cents each, based on valuation estimates. Miles can expire after 24 months of no activity. Taxes and fees apply to awards.
Earning rules and elite status
AAdvantage members earn 5 miles per dollar spent on base fare plus carrier imposed charges on American flights, with Platinum Pro at 8 miles per dollar and Executive Platinum at 11 miles per dollar. Elite status is based on Loyalty Points. Credit cards like the Citi AAdvantage earn bonus miles on dining and gas.
Redeeming wisely
AAdvantage uses dynamic award pricing, with MileSAAver awards no longer fixed. Partner awards on Oneworld airlines such as British Airways and Japan Airlines can offer better value in premium cabins. Be aware of fuel surcharges on some partners. Miles can be transferred to others for a fee.
Based on data from American Airlines AAdvantage
