[LOYALTY PROGRAM SHAKEUP] American Airlines Makes It Harder To Earn Frequent Flyer Status Next Year

[CNBC] Members of American Airlines’ loyalty program will have to spend more to earn elite frequent flyer status next year, part of a slew of changes the carrier announced Thursday.

Starting in March, AAdvantage members will need to earn 40,000 so-called Loyalty Points to earn Gold status, up from 30,000 in the current earning year. Gold is the lowest elite tier of American’s program, and it comes with perks like free upgrades — when those seats are available.

The airline will also get rid of MileSAAver and AAnytime awards, two categories to redeem frequent flyer miles for tickets, at set minimum rates. Instead American will feature its “Web Specials,” with mile requirements that will change based on demand. [FULLSTORY]

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