American Airlines has secured a 10-year exclusive deal with Citibank to issue its AAdvantage credit cards, projecting a significant financial boost. The airline expects its cash remuneration from co-branded credit cards and partners to grow by 10% annually, potentially reaching $10 billion per year, with an additional $1.5 billion in annual pre-tax income. This deal highlights the strategic importance of loyalty programs in the airline industry, as American Airlines aims to enhance its financial performance through this partnership.
American Airlines has partnered with Citi to become the exclusive issuer of its AAdvantage credit card portfolio in the U.S., projecting a 10% annual growth in cash remuneration from this and other partnerships. The airline expects its fourth-quarter TRASM to be flat to up 1% and adjusted EPS to be between $0.55 and $0.75, surpassing analyst estimates. This new agreement is anticipated to increase American Airlines' pre-tax income by approximately $1.5 billion compared to 2024, with cash remuneration potentially reaching $10 billion annually. AAL shares rose by 14.08% following the announcement.
American Airlines is raising its checked bag fees by $10, from $30 to $40 for bags checked at the airport, and from $30 to $35 for bags checked online. The carrier is also nudging passengers to become AAdvantage members, offering complimentary bags for members and credit cardholders. Additionally, the airline is changing its fee structure for overweight and oversized checked items.
American Airlines is making significant changes to its loyalty program and bag fees, limiting the ability to earn miles and Loyalty Points based on booking channels and raising checked bag fees. The airline will exclusively award AAdvantage miles and Loyalty Points for flights booked through select partners and preferred travel agencies, while also increasing checked bag fees for domestic and short-haul international flights. Additionally, American is adding more perks and benefits exclusively for AAdvantage members, aiming to boost loyalty program sign-ups and engagement.
American Airlines is enhancing its AAdvantage frequent flyer program in 2024 by adding benefits for loyal travelers while maintaining status and reward levels. New perks include the ability to earn additional loyalty points, redeem miles for upgrades on partner airlines, and access to Flagship First Dining passes for Platinum Pro members. Some benefits previously available to all customers will become exclusive to AAdvantage members, such as same-day standby, Admirals Club lounge access, and free flight holds. Additionally, AAdvantage members will have extended trip credit usability and the option to receive partial trip credit for canceling non-refundable basic economy tickets.
An American Airlines AAdvantage Executive Platinum member is pleased with the recent changes to the loyalty program, particularly the lack of major devaluation and the introduction of new perks such as the ability to upgrade on partner flights, access to Flagship First dining facilities, and the option to earn Loyalty Points for upgrades purchased with cash. While some perks are now limited to AAdvantage members, the overall sentiment is positive, with excitement about additional reward options and spending bonuses.
