Why Are American Airlines Basic Economy Fliers Losing AAdvantage Miles?

December 22, 2025 at 05:54 PM•2 min read

American Airlines cut AAdvantage miles and travel perks for Basic Economy tickets, sparking passenger loyalty concerns over the new airline revenue

Key Points

1American Airlines eliminated AAdvantage miles and Loyalty Points earning on Basic Economy tickets.
2The new policy is effective for all Basic Economy tickets purchased on or after December 17, 2025.
3This change aligns American Airlines with Delta's policy but contrasts with United's, which still awards some miles.
4The airline's goal is to encourage customers to 'buy up' to Main Cabin fares to drive loyalty program revenue.

Travelers purchasing the lowest fares on American Airlines will no longer earn AAdvantage miles or Loyalty Points. The carrier announced a significant change to its Basic Economy fare structure. This move effectively cuts a key incentive for price-sensitive customers. The airline's decision took effect for tickets bought on or after December 17, 2025.

The Policy Change

Previously, customers with a Basic Economy ticket earned reduced credit. They received two miles and Loyalty Points per dollar spent. The new policy eliminates all mileage and status earning for this fare class. The change is a major shift for the [AAdvantage loyalty program]. American Airlines stated they routinely evaluate fare products. This is done to remain competitive in the current marketplace.

Impact on Fliers

This change directly impacts fliers who book Basic Economy to save money. They can no longer slowly accrue points toward elite status. The cut in travel perks cut is especially frustrating for frequent travelers. Some relied on the miles to offset the fare's restrictions. However, Basic Economy passengers still receive some amenities. These include one free carry-on bag and in-flight entertainment.

Industry and Passenger Impact

This airline revenue strategy is designed to encourage "buy-ups." The carrier hopes customers will choose more expensive Main Cabin fares. Main Cabin tickets still earn full miles and Loyalty Points. Industry analysts see this as a way to boost revenue from the loyalty program.

Competitive Landscape

American Airlines now aligns with its competitor, Delta Air Lines. Delta's Main Basic fare also does not allow mileage or status earning. In contrast, United Airlines still awards some miles on its Basic Economy fare. This divergence in policy could influence budget travelers. They may choose a carrier that still offers an incentive for the cheapest fares. The move has sparked passenger loyalty concerns across social media. Many users called the change a betrayal of loyal, price-conscious customers. This ongoing trend of frequent flyer program devaluation is a key topic in commercial aviation news. It highlights the industry's focus on premium cabin profitability.

Risk: The change may push price-sensitive customers to low-cost carriers.
Opportunity: It simplifies the value proposition for Main Cabin and higher fares.
Strategy: The airline aims to increase revenue from customers who are status-driven.