Merger of American Airlines and US Airways frequent flier programs
The executive also stated that perks that are most important to customers, such as the frequent flier miles program, will be one of the top priorities for the merger. Eventually, the two frequent flier programs will become one, but this process will not conclude for a few more months.
In the mean time, however, customers of either airline can use newly acquired benefits, such as airline miles, for the other. US Airways Club and American Admirals Club members can now access both clubs, and travel on either airline can be used to qualify for elite status for both airlines if eligibility requirements are met. All elite benefits for the airlines can now also be used by customers of both airlines.
At this time, customers have numerous options regarding the perks and benefits they would like to use. But after all programs are completely merged together, some customers may no longer have some options available to them, and redemption rates for airline miles may become less favorable. Also, tickets for one airline may not be used for the other until the merger of the two companies formally concludes.
Customers, however, will be able to benefit in other ways once mergers complete for all airline programs. Service to new cities will be offered and new aircraft will be purchased, many of which have advanced technological capabilities such as in-flight Wi-Fi and a wide range of entertainment options. Customers may also elect to purchase seating with extra leg room in “Main Cabins.” Certain AA.com features can also be used for the flights of the airline it acquired, and airline miles with American can now be applied automatically to flights with the other airline.
The new American Airlines is expected to have access to all of US Airways’ flights by mid to late January. On March 30, that airline will cease to become a member of the Star Alliance, and on the following day, it will become a member of the oneworld alliance.