American Airlines has pushed back the deadline for implementing changes to its AAdvantage loyalty program and announcing preferred travel agencies from May 1 to July 11, the carrier has confirmed. In February, the airline revealed alterations scheduled for May 1 concerning the earning of credits for American flights.
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American AirlinesAmerican Airlines has pushed back the deadline for implementing changes to its AAdvantage loyalty program and announcing preferred travel agencies from May 1 to July 11, the carrier has confirmed.
In February, the airline revealed alterations scheduled for May 1 concerning the earning of credits for American flights. To accrue points, travelers would need to book directly, through a New Distribution Capability (NDC)-enabled channel, via a company with a corporate contract with American, or through preferred travel agencies, a new classification.
For an agency to be considered preferred, it must have booked at least 30 percent of its American volume through NDC-enabled channels by April 21, increasing to 50 percent by October 31 and 70 percent by April 30, 2025. The initial qualification deadline has been extended to June 5, with the volume threshold remaining unchanged at 30 percent. American clarified that future dates and volume levels will also remain the same.
An American spokesperson noted a positive response from agencies adopting modern retailing technology, with many achieving preferred status. The extension aims to assist agencies nearing the threshold in completing the transition.
However, according to The Beat, it’s unclear how the 30 percent measurement will be determined. While these changes may not initially impact corporate programs significantly, industry sources indicate American has terminated contracts with some corporations and agencies, or restructured their incentives.
During an AmTrav webinar, Results Plus Consulting partner Kim Hamer suggested two strategies for travel buyers to navigate the process and buy time: continue booking through their travel management company (TMC) to earn loyalty points, even if not preferred, or sign up for the AAdvantage Business program if lacking a corporate agreement.
Cory Garner, founder of Garner Advisory, noted the corporate market’s reaction to the AAdvantage change and suggested the SME business program as an option for companies. He emphasized that while future changes could occur, the current strategy appears focused on leisure rather than corporate clientele.
