Members of American Airlines’ AAdvantage program will soon need more points to reach the lowest tier of elite status.
American Airlines Group Inc. is making it more expensive for travelers to qualify for frequent-flier status in its loyalty program next year, the latest airline to tighten requirements.
Starting in March, members of American’s AAdvantage program will need to earn 40,000 “loyalty points” to reach Gold, its lowest tier of status, up from 30,000. That level includes benefits such as a free checked bag, earlier boarding and access to free upgrades if there is availability.