American Airlines has made a significant change to its AAdvantage loyalty program that affects travelers booking basic economy tickets. As of December 17, 2023, basic economy fares no longer earn any AAdvantage miles or Loyalty Points. This applies to all new bookings made on or after that date.
Previously, even the most budget-friendly American Airlines tickets allowed travelers to earn reduced miles and Loyalty Points—roughly two miles and points per dollar spent. Now, that benefit has been eliminated entirely for basic economy. Travelers will still receive standard onboard offerings such as a personal item, carry-on bag, snacks, drinks, and in-flight entertainment, but no longer accrue any credit toward free flights or elite status on these fares.
This move brings American Airlines more in line with competitors like Delta, which already excludes its lowest fares from earning miles or status. United still offers partial earning on its basic economy fares, but not full credit.
The change most impacts travelers who fly American semi-regularly and have used basic economy as a way to slowly accumulate points or work toward elite status without paying higher Main Cabin prices. For these travelers, basic economy is now strictly a no-frills, no-reward option.
The response from frequent flyers has been overwhelmingly negative, especially among those who book basic economy for work or short trips and relied on earning loyalty benefits. Many feel this undercuts the value of the AAdvantage program and reduces the incentive to choose American over other airlines.
For travelers who value earning miles or status, it’s now more important than ever to double-check fare types before booking. Sometimes the price difference between basic economy and Main Cabin is small enough that the added benefits and ability to earn points may justify the upgrade. For those who fly infrequently or are simply chasing the lowest price, basic economy remains an option—but it’s now truly “basic,” with no loyalty rewards attached.
