With the American Airlines and US Airways merger an award chart devaluation at some point was sure to occur. Now, on the heels of making revenue based changes American Airlines just announced an award chart devaluation.
Across the board the devaluation hit premium class award the hardest. Here is a general breakdown of what the devaluation looks like:
- Significant devaluation to international first class
- Significant devaluation to international business class (although, both increases/decreases)
- In economy, both increases/decreases. Improvement to short haul US flights
You can compare the current and new charts here:
AAdvantage award chart for travel booked before March 22, 2016
AAdvantage award chart for travel booked on or after March 22, 2016
American Airlines Award Chart Changes 2016
Economy Class Award Chart
Business Class Award Chart
First Class Award Chart
MileSAAver Award Price Increase (Miles)
The Bottom Line
It’s hard to say that this devaluation wasn’t expected and overall it’s pretty ugly with regards to premium cabin awards. American Airlines was a sweet spot in miles for premium class awards, but with the new award charts they will be much more inline with United and Delta.
The bottom line? If you’re holding a lot of American Airlines miles seriously think about burning them before the changes go into effect on March 22, 2016.
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