In an era of fierce competition within the airline industry, carriers are constantly striving to entice and retain loyal customers. One recent instance involved Delta Air Lines’ adjustments to its SkyMiles loyalty program, which faced backlash and prompted reversals of changes, highlighting the importance of passenger satisfaction.
American Airlines has now unveiled its response to this competitive landscape with the introduction of the AAdvantage Business program. This innovative program distinguishes American Airlines as the only U.S. carrier offering a business loyalty program that expedites travelers’ journey to AAdvantage status.
Under the AAdvantage Business program, both companies and business travelers reap rewards. Companies accumulate AAdvantage miles, while business travelers earn additional Loyalty Points, hastening their progress towards AAdvantage status. The program also includes a credit card component, exemplified by the CitiBusiness/AAdvantage Platinum Select Mastercard, which facilitates the accumulation of rewards for companies and enhances Loyalty Point earnings for travelers.
One distinctive feature of this program is its digital emphasis. American Airlines encourages the use of its website and app to maximize the benefits. The fully digital program streamlines travel management, offering access to the carrier’s best fares and servicing. Program members gain access to a suite of online tools, encompassing reporting, traveler management, duty of care, and more, providing an all-encompassing solution for convenient business travel management.
American Airlines positions AAdvantage Business as the first program of its kind, providing a unique proposition in the airline industry. Scott Laurence, Senior Vice President of Partnerships and Retailing at American Airlines, lauded the program’s design, describing it as a win-win endeavor to reward both companies and travelers alike. AAdvantage Business makes it simple for businesses with at least five employees to participate, without imposing a minimum spending requirement for the company to begin earning miles.
The program’s reward structure includes companies earning 1 AAdvantage mile for every $1 spent on eligible business travel, which can be redeemed for travel, hotels, car rentals, Admirals Club lounge access, and more. Additionally, individual travelers earn 1 Loyalty Point for every $1 spent on eligible business travel, which counts toward their progress in achieving AAdvantage member status, in addition to any miles or Loyalty Points they may already be earning.
American Airlines aims to provide a distinctive and comprehensive loyalty program through AAdvantage Business, signaling its commitment to delivering rewards and tools that benefit businesses and travelers throughout their journey.
