Details
Written by: RJ
American has released a few changes to their loyalty program today:
Earning miles
Effective 5/1/24, American is adding new requirements to earn AA points for American Airlines flights. Flights will have to be booked via specific means:
- Book directly with American or an eligible partner airline
- Book as an AAdvantage business member or contracted corporate traveler
- Book through a preferred travel agency – no names given yet
- Basic economy won’t earn points this way
Transferring miles to others
- Cost lowered from 1.5 cents per mile to 0.5 cents per mile
New checked bag prices
- $35 for the first checked bag purchased online
- $40 for the first checked bag purchased at the airport
- $45 for the second checked bag purchased online or at the airport
First reported by OMAAT

Thoughts
Seems like a play to bring more bookings in house. While also pushing more cards for the checked bag perk.