The world's largest U.S. airline, American Airlines, recently announced that it will stop offering miles and travel rewards to loyalty program members who purchase basic economy tickets.

In the statement, the company noted: “We regularly evaluate our fares to remain competitive in the market. Customers who purchase a basic economy ticket on or after December 17, 2025, will not accrue miles AAdvantage and Loyalty Points are no longer required to achieve AAdvantage status. Basic Economy customers will continue to receive one free personal item and one free carry-on bag, as well as complimentary snacks, soft drinks, and in-flight entertainment,” the airline explained. Previously, travelers enrolled in the AAdvantage program earned points and two miles for every dollar spent on a regular fare ticket, but with the new policy that took effect on December 17, airline customers will only earn points when purchasing more expensive tickets. Scott Keyes, founder of the travel deals website Going.com, noted that “American has been searching for a sweet spot with Basic Economy fares, where they want them available but don't want those who would otherwise book more expensive fares to book them,” he said. Keyes emphasized that “that's why they're removing some associated perks and benefits to make them less attractive to those who might decide, 'I'll pay $40 more to be in Premium Economy instead of Basic Economy.'” “In basic class,” he said. According to a regulatory filing, during the last quarter of this year, the Texas-based airline, known for offering domestic and international flights, lost $114 million on revenues of $13.7 billion.