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American Airlines has eliminated its “MileSAAver” and “AAnytime” award rates, now introducing a new, simplified award chart known as “Flight Awards.” Following the likes of other domestic carriers, American Airlines has officially transitioned to fully dynamic pricing.
While there are some changes in how awards are viewed — and booked — by and large, a majority of the program stays the same from what customers have experienced over the past few years.
Let’s get into the details.
Previously, American Airlines had 2 basic award levels: MileSAAver and AAnytime. (There were more, but to reduce complexity, we’ll only cover these main 2.)
An AAnytime award came at the highest rates, often reserved for popular routes or last-minute availability. You’d pay a high cost but were guaranteed a seat on the plane.
At the MileSAAver level, you’d save a lot of miles, but likely needed to fly at a less-than-desirable time or less popular routes.
In sum, there were multiple levels of awards in the old award chart, but customers often sought out these lowest possible award prices.
Now, American Airlines has moved to a single award chart called “Flight Awards.”
Under this new program, there are no more AAnytime or MileSAAver rates. There’s a singular Flight Award rate, which you can price out either by going online or calling a phone agent. You won’t have to worry about saving miles, or whether something is 1 rate vs. another.
Here’s a look at the new dynamically priced award chart. Keep in mind that the following rates are the starting levels, with no published ceiling prices:
Region: | Main Cabin (Starting At): | Premium Economy (Starting At): | Business/First (Starting At): |
Contiguous 48 U.S. states and Canada | 7,500 | – | 15,000 |
Mexico, Caribbean, and Central America | 10,000 | – | 20,000 |
South America (Short-haul) | 15,000 | – | 30,000 |
Hawaii and Alaska | 20,000 | – | 60,000 |
Europe | 25,000 | 40,000 | 75,000 |
South America (Long-haul) | 30,000 | 50,000 | 90,000 |
Asia, Middle East, and the South Pacific | 35,000 | 60,000 | 95,000 |
Essentially, what you see at the time of booking is what you’ll get, which may reduce confusion for inexperienced bookers. Here are some other things you need to know about the new program:
Hot Tip: The best deal you’ll be able to get on booking awards will involve partner carriers. Therefore, you can combine a partner airline booking to lock in better than usual rates. Learn all about the best ways to redeem your American Airlines AAdvantage miles!
Over the past few years, American has heavily promoted its “Web Special” awards, and this new Flight Awards program essentially replaces that offering altogether. Gone are the days where you could piece together an award for a desirable price.
Now, you’ll need to trust what American’s website tells you as it moves to fully dynamic award pricing.
