American unveils full catalog of Loyalty Choice Rewards for top-tier members
Before you know it, March 1 will be here, and with it comes an overhauled American Airlines AAdvantange loyalty program.
First unveiled back in October, American is completely revamping its elite status program. You'll no longer earn elite-qualifying miles, dollars and segments towards status.
Instead, beginning on March 1, American will consolidate the elite-qualifying currency into one metric, "Loyalty Points." We've already covered most of the details, including all the ways you can earn Loyalty Points and why now is the perfect time to be double-dipping with American.
But one aspect of the program that was still under wraps was the rewards structure. Once you hit top-tier status, what are the rewards?
Well, we now have the answer, as the airline just unveiled the full suite of Loyalty Choice Rewards launching on March 1 — and here are all the details.
Loyalty Points needed to earn Loyalty Choice Rewards
To earn a pick at the Loyalty Choice Rewards, you'll need to hit the following number of Loyalty Points.
| Reward level | Loyalty Points required |
|---|---|
Level 1 (Platinum Pro status) | 125,000 |
Level 2 (Executive Platinum status) | 200,000 |
Level 3 (Executive Platinum status) | 350,000 |
Level 4 (Executive Platinum status) | 550,000 |
Level 5 (Executive Platinum status) | 750,000 |
In addition to the Loyalty Points requirement, you'll need to fly at least 30 segments on American and qualifying partners to unlock Loyalty Choice Rewards.
Historically, there hasn’t been a minimum-segment requirement to earn the perks of AAdvantage status, and putting the threshold at 30 might be high for some flyers who prefer fewer long-haul trips to more frequent domestic hops.
If it’s any consolation, award tickets marketed by American will count toward reaching the minimum segment requirement, though you won’t earn any miles or Loyalty Points from those transactions.
Note that only AAdvantage award segments for travel on American will count towards this requirement. This does not include partners like Alaska, JetBlue, British Airways and others.
Loyalty Choice Rewards
Level 1
After you cross 125,000 Loyalty Points with 30 qualifying segments, you'll earn Platinum Pro status, along with one choice from the following catalog of rewards.
| Reward | Choice required |
|---|---|
20,000 AAdvantage miles (25,000 miles with cobranded card) | 1 choice |
1 systemwide upgrade | 1 choice |
6 Admirals Clubs day passes | 1 choice |
$200 Trip Credit | 1 choice |
$200 donation | 1 choice |
Gift of Gold Status | 1 choice |
Carbon offset | 1 choice |
15% award discount (one-time) | 1 choice |
Level 2
After you cross 200,000 Loyalty Points with 30 (or more) qualifying segments, you'll earn Executive Platinum status, along with two extra choices from the following catalog of rewards.
Altogether, once you hit 200,000 points, you get a total of three choices (one from Level 1 and two from Level 2).
| Reward | Choice(s) required |
|---|---|
20,000 AAdvantage miles (30,000 miles with cobranded card) | 1 choice |
2 systemwide upgrades | 1 choice |
6 Admirals Clubs day passes | 1 choice |
$200 Trip Credit | 1 choice |
$200 donation | 1 choice |
Admirals Club individual membership | 2 choices |
Gift of Gold Status | 1 choice |
Carbon offset | 1 choice |
1 Bang & Olufsen premium product | 2 choices |
Level 3, 4 and 5
After you hit 200,000 Loyalty Points, you can continue to earn additional rewards at the 350,000, 550,000 and 750,000 Loyalty Point thresholds. Note that you won't earn any additional status — unless American gifts you with its invite-only Concierge Key status, you'll continue to be an Executive Platinum member.
Once you cross each threshold, you'll enjoy two extra choices from a very similar menu of benefits, which is listed below. The only difference is that once you hit the 550,000 and 750,000 Loyalty Points threshold, the gift of status changes from Gold to Platinum, which will also require two choices compared to one for Gold.
| Reward | Choice(s) required |
|---|---|
25,000 AAdvantage miles | 1 choice |
1 systemwide upgrade | 1 choice |
6 Admirals Clubs day passes | 1 choice |
$200 Trip Credit | 1 choice |
$200 donation | 1 choice |
Admirals Club individual membership | 2 choices |
Gift of Gold/Platinum Status | 1 choice/2 choices |
Carbon offset | 1 choice |
Changes from 2021
Savvy American Airlines flyers will note that the new Loyalty Choice Rewards largely resemble those from 2021, with a few key differences.
The Level 2 catalog is slightly different than last year's one — the Bang and Olufsen products now require two choices (a noticeable devaluation for those selecting these premium audio products).
Additionally, American is retiring the 10,000 elite-qualifying miles bonus that Executive Platinum elites could select in 2021. Those members who requalified in 2021 can select the 10,000 EQM bonus under the outgoing model, which will be converted to 20,000 Loyalty Points when they launch on March 1.
Furthermore, "beyond Executive Platinum Rewards" is being replaced with two picks each from the Level 3, 4 and 5 catalog. This is a flyer-friendly improvement, since the options include all of the retired choices, along with some new ones.
Of course, earning these additional rewards will require more Loyalty Points than they did in the outgoing EQM model.
Pre-pandemic, you earned the Executive Platinum Rewards for each additional 50,000 EQMs that you earned beyond 100,000. Now, you'll need (at least) an additional 150,000 Loyalty Points to unlock more rewards.
Menu of Loyalty Choice Rewards
You'll find a full list and explanation of the available rewards below.
Systemwide upgrades
As in the past, systemwide upgrades (SWUs) can be used to move from coach to business class or from business class to Flagship First on any flight operated by American.
SWUs will expire one year from the date of selection. You don’t necessarily need to upgrade during that year, as an expiring SWU can be applied to future travel so long as there’s upgrade space when using the certificate.
As such, if you’re planning to pick SWUs as your gift, be sure to hold off on redeeming your pick until you have a flight that’s available for upgrade.
Related: How to use American systemwide upgrades
AAdvantage bonus miles
All five levels can pick bonus AAdvantage miles. Levels 1 and 2 can earn 20,000 miles, worth $326 according to the TPG valuations, while levels 3, 4 and 5 can earn 25,000 miles, worth $408.
Note that if you’re a cobranded credit cardholder you’ll enjoy an additional 5,000 miles bonus (worth $82) on top of the lump-sum distribution for level 1, and an additional 10,000 miles (worth $163) at Level 2.
One-time 15%-off award discount
This Platinum Pro-exclusive option unlocks 15% off a single AAdvantage award ticket.
This discount applies to any type of award ticket, including revenue-based Web Specials, with no maximum on how much you can save.
Note that the discount will be applied post-travel as a rebate, for up to two passengers traveling round-trip.
As such, if you’re planning to redeem an award that costs 133,000 miles or more, it definitely makes sense to choose the 15% discount, as opposed to the 20,000-mile lump-sum bonus.
Carbon emissions offset
American is partnering with the non-profit Cool Effect to purchase offsets calculated based on your flight activity during the elite-qualifying year.
$200 donation to a partner charity
Flyers can also choose to gift a reward to one of ten non-profit organizations. American will send $200 to the partner non-profit of your choice, including programs like Feeding America and Stand Up 2 Cancer.
Admirals Club day-passes and membership
All levels include an option to choose six single-day lounge passes (worth $354), while Executive Platinums and above can choose an individual Admirals Club membership (worth $550). Just note that the latter requires both picks from the top-tier catalog.
The Admirals Club membership is tied to elite membership year (Feb. 28, two years after qualifying for status), so if you pick the lounge access gift, be sure to make your selection immediately upon earning status.
The day passes, on the other hand, are good for one year from the date selected.
Note that there are alternative ways to access the Admirals Club through cobranded credit cards. If you’re itching for a key to the lounge, it could definitely make sense to open a credit card and select another, more exclusive pick from the rewards menu.
Related: American Airlines Admirals Club membership guide
$200 Trip Credit
This one is pretty simple.
All levels can select a $200 Trip Credit to be used on any future American Airlines flight.
The lump-sum bonus miles are definitely worth more than the future travel voucher though. So, unless you rarely (or inefficiently) use your miles, it makes sense to stick with the 20,000 or 25,000 (or more) mile bonus.
Gift of Gold status
TPG values AAdvantage Gold status at $930 (in a pre-pandemic world), so if you have a friend or family member who flies AA periodically, but not enough to earn status on their own, then this gift could be worthwhile.
Note that the gifted status will expire at the same time as the member — on Feb. 28, two years after qualifying. As such, once you hit status, be sure to make your pick at who gets the gold.
Bang & Olufsen products
While many frequent flyers will likely choose a combination of the above picks, perhaps your employer pays for business-class seats and you’re flush with miles for personal travel.
If that’s the case, you might consider redeeming for a Bang & Olufsen headset, earbuds or speaker. These products regularly score rave reviews from customers (and TPG staff), so it’s certainly not a lousy pick.
TPG featured card
Rewards
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro offer
Annual Fee
Recommended Credit
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.
Rewards Rate
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro Offer
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.As High As 100,000 points. Find Out Your Offer.Annual Fee
$325Recommended Credit
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.Excellent to Good
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.