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As of earlier this week, American Airlines basic economy passengers will no longer receive frequent flyer miles or points for elite status, the carrier announced.
“We routinely evaluate our fare products to remain competitive in the marketplace,” the company said, according to CNBC. “Customers who purchase a Basic Economy ticket on December 17, 2025 and beyond will not earn AAdvantage miles or Loyalty Points towards AAdvantage status. Basic Economy customers will continue to receive one free personal item and one free carry-on bag, free snacks, soft drinks and in-flight entertainment.”
The Basic Economy Offering
Basic economy is American’s cheapest ticket offering, and it comes with the most restrictions. First introduced by Delta Air Lines in 2012, and American in 2017, the discounted option was a way for larger carriers to compete with budget airlines. Flyers with these tickets are required to pay a fee before they can change their ticket, their seats are typically assigned during flight check-in, and they are the last to board.
American’s move is part of a recent trend in airlines decreasing the perks associated with their lowest fare ticket options. The change echoes that of Delta, which said recently flyers with Delta Main Basic tickets would not earn Delta SkyMiles any longer. Similarly, United Airlines customers with basic economy tickets are only permitted one personal item onboard.
Higher Prices With Less Competition
According to Axios, the decision reflects American’s dominance in certain airports. The airline runs roughly 90 percent of flights in and out of Charlotte Douglas International Airport, making the airport its second-largest hub. Because of that, travelers have limited options for airlines and flights, and the airline ends up charging more for tickets.
From December 18 through January 5, American expects it will see over 11,700 flights in Charlotte, translating to more than 1.4 million tickets.
American’s elite loyalty members with economy tickets are still eligible for first-class upgrades on domestic flights, a spokesperson told CNBC.
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Ava Levinson
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