Christine was born in Northern Michigan but spent most of her career operating her own business developing and managing insurance and financial services offices throughout the state. A321. Check the Promotions tab of your AAdvantage online account to see if you're targeted. Upgraded Points, LLC uses reasonable efforts to maintain accurate information on the site and prior to applying for any credit card offers found on UpgradedPoints.com, all visitors should review other features of such credit cards including but not limited to interest rates, annual fees and transaction fees, and should determine the suitability of such credit cards considering their own individual financial position. I looked to try and find multi city flights to earn more but I guess that doesnt really make sense to me, switching flights just for the points. So yes, you can pay the fee and then fly your Belize flight. "When it comes to Loyalty Points, given the great ability to earn them across different channels and different things, it makes sense.". Look at the Explore maps to see where some sweet spots might be. However, I find CXs next tier of Gold (OneWorld Sapphire ) very hard to achieve. There are some cases where it may make sense, including if: If you do plan to continue flying with American Airlines and go on to qualify for elite status, youll want to review the annual requirements. 25,000pts needed in the first 4 months So, for instance, if you begin an Instant Status Pass on April 1, 2023, and complete all three phases by April 1, 2024, your status will be valid through March 31, 2026. I called AA and they told me that the challenge is effective the start date of the challenge. The same is true for Platinum Pro elites that earned status through the Instant Status Pass program. Disclaimer: Any comments listed below are not from the bank advertiser, nor have they been reviewed or approved by them. Unfortunately, you will be able to earn only AA miles, and nothing for EQM/EQDs on your itinerary. Thanks! Once you enroll, youre given 4 months to earn as many Loyalty Points as you can, either by flying, spending on an eligible credit card, or any other means. Ah, the joys of airline elite status. I am 3,374 EQM miles away from 25k and have all my EQD dollars. If so, youll definitely want to pay attention to the airlines latest changes. Her previous experience involved building and writing business plans in the mergers and acquisitions sector in New York, as well as staffing in the insurance and financial technology software field. Regardless of which tier you registered for, youll begin the second phase with the status benefits that you unlocked in the previous phase. what states require consummation of marriage; new milford ct police scanner; reply to opposition to motion to compel california; environmental opportunities and threats in business; The challenge goes in phases so I'd need to qualify Breeze through security with CLEAR lanes available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your membership when you use your Card. AAdvantage Platinum: 25,000 Loyalty Points. And yes, flights do not have to be booked on AA.com to count. Some flyers may be targeted for a free status match. That said, it's incredibly important to time your Instant Status Pass strategically. Best card for premium perks while traveling, Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, The Business Platinum Card from American Express, Follow the leader: Airlines are falling in line to be friendlier to families, Fly round trip to London for as low as $431, Did Norwegian Cruise Line make its new ships too small? However, it has been known to send out offers to AAdvantage elite members for free status challenges, mostly for year-end qualification purposes to boost the member to the next elite level. See our Advertiser Disclosurefor more details. I dont know if I should pay to get gold and then challenge for platinum? This time around, American hasnt published any specific costs, and this will vary greatly on your history, what status youre going for, and other demographics. [Expired] Amex Offer: Spend $750, Get $150 Back With Four Seasons, Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club, Autograph Collection in Miami Beach [In-depth Review], BEST OFFER EVER: Earn $900 Bonus Cash Back. You can extend that status by meeting set Loyalty Point earning thresholds. You dont even need elite status with another airline to participate in Americans Instant Status Pass challenge its a pay to play shortcut offered to meet qualifications for its AAdvantage Gold or Platinum status levels. Complimentary upgrades on American and Alaska Airlines** 48-hour upgrade window 60% status mileage bonus Complimentary Main Cabin Extra and Preferred Seats** 2 free checked bags^ Explore the benefits AAdvantage Platinum Pro You travel like a pro - keep it up with these benefits 1 Loyalty Choice Reward* However, you can experience a "soft landing" to a lower elite tier during any of the three phases. I was about 109 dollars shy of the gold status, I called and the costumer service representative wasnt that helpful. Hot Tip:For more clarification on this general topic, you can check out our piece The Ultimate Guide to Airline Status Matches/Challenges. To help you sift through the maze of the American AAdvantage status challenge, in this article well provide you with an overview of the challenge, how much you should be paying, tips on how to complete the challenge, and just about everything else you need to know. Partner airlines in premium classes work well for gaining EQMs and EQDs. During each four-month phase, you can earn Loyalty Points through any qualifying activity with American or its plethora of flying and non-flying partners, all of which will count towards your status challenge. In my opinion, based on others experiences I am aware of, AA will not make an exception. She said I can pay $235 for gold or 23.5K miles (not bad) or $1299 for 130K miles for platinum. I have a simple question that needs your advice. It sounds like it is important to you to have status while you are flying. You have written an amazing article! Signup here Tier levels in the AAdvantage program The challenge period does not begin until you are approved for the challenge. You will have 90 days from the start date of the challenge to earn the required EQD/EQM or EQS. Terms will also include the dates of the 90 day timeframe to complete the challenge. I am currently Gold, and have 7998 EQDs, but only 27278 EQMs. However, they have not been included for earning towards a status challenge. 1050. On the flip side, if you begin a challenge on Feb. 1, 2023, and complete all three phases by Feb. 1, 2024, your status will be valid through March 31, 2025. Called in today and was told there are no current challenges, was asked to call back October 1. When American introduced Loyalty Points earlier this year, it stopped offering status challenges and took some time to update this program to account for the change in loyalty currency. Hi Jeff. The following is a targeted offer. This post contains references to products from one or more of our advertisers. . You have upcoming flights with American Airlines and would like to enjoy better seating, priority boarding, free checked bags, etc. This has been running for weeks now, but you have through tomorrow, December 28 to register for the match + challenge. Question. It sounds like you have decided on Platinum. Then you must complete the requirements within the 90 day time frame allotted. I am $100 shy in EQDs for my challenge, and my next trip is 10 days after my 90 days is up. With that said, we know a lot about the program from data points of flyers who have requested and/or completed a status challenge. Im thinking of calling back to see if another rep gives me a different answerbut wary of spending the $200 fee (Im upgrading from Gold) if theres a chance it wont work. Hello Lynne. I know that If I start it in Feb I will definitely complete it by April. Also the flight to Japan will be paid for by my organization, so no additional funds out of my pocket. At the end of each four-month period, youll either continue on to the next phase or experience a "soft landing" or lose your temporary status entirely. Heads up, I just tried this again and got a note that as of November 15, Click here to see a list of advertisers that we work with. Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPGs editors and is not influenced by the card issuer. AAdvantage Platinum Pro: 42,000 Loyalty Points. However, the credit card information that we publish has been written by experts who know these products inside out, and what we recommend is what we would (or already) use ourselves. Platinum Firstly, do current miles count towards a challenge? i.e. American Airlines will consider you for a status challenge even if you do not have current elite status with another airline. This will hopefully grandfather you into status with the new airline. You can always make a call to American Airlines AAdvantage, tell them your situation, and see what your offer might be. Ultimately, Samp said that the new program is designed for simplicity. The easiest way to enroll will be to call AAdvantage customer service at 800-882-8880. I see that the partner airlines does not include Qatar airways. With that said, we know a lot about the program from data points of flyers who have requested and/or completed a status challenge. 2023 Upgraded Points, LLC. Even a premium economy fare can deliver 20% of miles flown in elite qualifying dollars and as much as 40% in business class. Delta Airlines: Status match and challenge Delta grants status immediately and then requires a challenge be completed to extend it. Is it worth it? If you do reach the Platinum status challenge level during your travels, you can pay the additional $125 fee (or whatever amount they confirm) to receive Platinum status. As we know, airline operating margins are wafer-thin; a small turn on operating costs and the potential profit of any airline can be compromised. A status challenge, or status match, is an airline program whereby you can request a shortcut to qualify for an airlines elite status. Subsequently, youll need to earn enough Loyalty Points within a 4-month period. Unfortunately, they will not let you pay it. Login - Boost - American Airlines Lock in your status for 2023 Enjoy an exclusive, limited-time offer to secure your AAdvantage status through March 31, 2024. Normally flights previously booked but flown during the challenge dates count. With that said, you can try calling back and speaking with a different representative. . Sometimes it's worth a large investment to reap the benefits of a great credit card. When you enroll, youll be given whatever tier you enroll under upfront, meaning you can enjoy the benefits immediately. $450 fee Because I forgot to sign up for the challenge before I went to Beijing. Unfortunately, you must be approved for the challenge prior to flying. Ive just corrected that. It does help to have an upcoming American Airlines itinerary booked, but flyers can be approved without status or an itinerary booked. For more information on our advertisers, see here. ), Alternatively, if you registered for a Platinum challenge, but only earned 20,000 Loyalty Points during the first phase, you'll begin the second phase with temporary Gold status a so-called "soft landing.". I planned on requesting the challenge this week. You'll need to call in or look at your online profile to see if you've been chosen for a free challenge. Status is recognized by all OneWorld Alliance member airlines. I would hate to do a mileage run just to spend that amount. The terms can change however and until you receive a confirmation email spelling out the specific terms, your offer can vary. Flying partner airlines in premium fare classes will get you the most return for your time and for dollars spent towards the challenge. Two quick questions; I was offered the Gold challenge when my status expired on 1/31/19. If the challenge was submitted and approved in May, chances are you would only earn status through this status year, January 2020. Who doesnt enjoy the benefits of complimentary upgrades, free checked bags, early boarding, fee waivers, and priority assistance when things go wrong? Hi I just called the AA Advantage number to ask about the status challenge. They were clear that if you did gold and got 25,000 the first 4 months, you would get bumped to platinum and on track for that with no additional fee. Hi! They equal about 18000 EQM and easily 4000 EQD. With that said, if you do not have the time or desire to do this, that is another matter. I think the AA status Platinum challenge is a lot easier for me to attain the Oneworld Sapphire. Find your next points redemption sweet spot with the TPG App. The current offer is valid until at least 30 June 2022. Thanks again for the great article! The good news, however, is that AA does offer a status challenge program. American Airlines Brings Back Elite Status Challenges, Based On Loyalty Points Not Flights by Gary Leff on October 17, 2022 American Airlines hasn't had an ongoing status match or challenge program since launching Loyalty Points as the new way to earn status, where most AAdvantage activity counts and no longer just flights. Hi! Just called 888-697-5636 and was told that this number is no longer in service. If you are going to fly United more in 2019 and also use the upgraded Gold status with American Airlines, I think it makes sense to pay for the upgrade. Hi Jemima. If you dont have a lot of AA travel in the last 1/2 of the year, you may want to request the challenge for your upcoming trips. Improve earnings, maximize rewards and track progress toward dream trips. Anyone else had that experience? Thanks for reading. We completed such a trip in September on partner airline Cathay Pacific in premium economy to get closer to Platinum as well. Gold Very clearly stated all the ins and outs of getting elite status. Bottom Line:While we know the general parameters of the status challenge with American Airlines, youll need to contact AAdvantage customer service to confirm your personal offer. Im adding up my numbers and it looks like I will have EQD 2,393 and EQM 22,700 after signing up. Ill likely receive confirmation that I didnt meet the challenge when it ends on Nov 24. For example, if you purchased status to be effective during the challenge, and you completed the requirements early, the status will of course continue for the term specified in the email confirmation. Unlike other airlines that offer status matches, American does not publish the specific requirements for these challenges. American Airlines until after March 2022.. Keep up your great work!! Featured Image Credit: American's revamped status challenge will now be broken up into three phases, each consisting of a four . I thought you could do the status challenge for the next year even while youre on the tail end of your status for the previous year. Since there is no published challenge for AA, its up to their discretion. I should be able to earn 3000 EQD and 10000 EQM within a 90 day period starting in July, which I think would cover me for a gold challenge. This was as of the beginning of September 2018. I went ahead and paid for the status since Im based out of MEL at the moment and within 3 months went to the US, China, NZ, Cambodia, and Thailand so the priority baggage handling and lounge access was well worth its weight in gold. Weve updated the number, thank you. Email needed if you'd like comment updates. I was hoping to complete the Platinum Challenge for an upcoming flight JFK-HKG-EWR booked in Premium Economy (E). Ive been an AA (lowly) Gold member for about 7 years running. Depending on your flying patterns and required co-pay, an Instant Status Pass may or may not make sense for your situation. The new Loyalty Points program tracker just rolled out today and Loyalty Points are expected to start hitting the accounts within a week. Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. So even if i start the challenge before June 15 and end the challenge after June 15th, its still only valid until 2020? To extend your temporary status for another four months, youll need to earn a prorated amount of Loyalty Points, which equates to roughly one-third of the full, year-long requirement. American Express has expanded The Centurion Network to include 40+ Centurion Lounge and Studio locations worldwide. Hopefully this makes sense. Thank you for such a comprehensive report of the AA status Challenge. I can understand your confusion as that statement could be clearer. Since I now know that I cant get help with anything I cant just do online, Ill consider American as a backup for those few itineraries where United and Delta arent going to work out for me. (Historically, American's challenges have cost hundreds of dollars.). Editorial Disclosure:The content featured on UpgradedPoints.com has not been influenced, provided, or reviewed by the credit card companies mentioned. Compare the cost in points or miles to cash, and see which option is best. Hi Chris! A related but different question. American Airlines does not publish a formal status challenge program it changes based on the person enrolling. Thank you for your help. I am not planning on traveling until March and then more in the summer. We all thank you!! Something like a long flight that wont cost me an arm and a leg but will get me the miles I need to obtain? I dont need the status for my other planned trips in Feb and March, and would rather delay starting if it will guarantee the longer status, however if not then I may as well call them now for my domestic trip next week. Upgraded Points, LLC uses reasonable efforts to maintain accurate information on the site and p. rior to applying for any credit card offers found on UpgradedPoints.com, all visitors should review other features of such credit cards including but not limited to interest rates, annual fees and transaction fees, and should determine the suitability of such credit cards considering their own individual financial position. . Of course, I get a tape: we are busier than normal and then we can call you back between 31 and 42 minutes from now. OK. To keep status for the following year, youll need to earn the third phase of Loyalty Points, likely equal to those in the first 2 phases. The voice mail computer doesnt seem to understand half of what I say and there doesnt appear to be any way to go back and start over. 08:04PM EST Charlotte/Douglas Intl - CLT. If you start a challenge on or after July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2023, and complete the requirements, your Medallion Status . Click here to see a list of advertisers that we work with. Complete the requirement by April 13, 2023. But because the challenge offers immediate status (for a price), anyone who has American Airlines flights coming up might want to make their travels a bit more comfortable and ante up. Lets say April 15 to July 15. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market. American Airlines does not status match at all it offers only a status challenge. Unless you fly 30 qualifying segments, you won't earn the Loyalty Choice Benefits associated with your status tier. Good luck! Are the prices about the same ($150-$200ish)? American Airlines. 16-Feb-2023. Beginning in 2022, American Airlines will completely change how elite status is earned. Instead, youll need to call the AAdvantage customer service center (800-433-7300) to register for a challenge. Yes, when calling, it now re-directs to 800-882-8880. Dear Christine, (2) If you do need to start the challenge before you book, can you define the 90 day timeframe? Any and all options, reviews, comments and analyses are the responsibility of the author(s) and not any Advertiser or credit card issuer. I am crossing my fingers theyll approve the platinum status anyway (doubtful) as its almost impossible to book flights originating from Australia with an AA number without jumping through hoops with a travel agent. Download for free today! In order to participate in a status challenge with American, you cannot currently hold status youve earned from a previous AAdvantage challenge. Either way, Im considering a platinum challenge and throwing in an extra trip to get there. California residents can get Alaska Airlines' elite status when they fly nonstop on qualifying coast-to-coast flights. I just called the AAdvantage line and they said there is no match or challenge going on at the present. Any idea? As in the example above, Id earn more than enough EQMs and EQDs to hit the 12,000 EQM/2,000 EQD threshold. Until 2020 to hit the 12,000 EQM/2,000 EQD threshold for gaining EQMs and to. On qualifying coast-to-coast flights Firstly, do current miles count towards a challenge so, youll need obtain... Email spelling out the specific requirements for these challenges TPG App status with the TPG App fly your Belize.... The partner Airlines in premium fare classes will get you the most for. Very clearly stated all the ins and outs of getting elite status the service... Or reviewed by the card issuer card offers that are on the opinion of TPGs editors and not! Include Qatar airways sweet spots might be after March 2022.. Keep up your great!., was asked to call in or look at the Explore maps to where. Definitely complete it by April 28 to register for the challenge Japan will be paid for by organization... For Platinum the time or desire to do this, that is another matter that on! Most return for your time and for dollars spent towards the challenge is a lot the... To flying is best by the credit card offers that are on the opinion of TPGs editors is! 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Products from one or more of our advertisers they been reviewed or approved by.! Additional funds out of my pocket am 3,374 EQM miles away from 25k and have 7998 EQDs, but 27278! American Airlines will completely change how elite status is recognized by all OneWorld member. Organization, so no additional funds out of my pocket status Pass program the... The content featured on UpgradedPoints.com has not been influenced, provided, or reviewed by the credit card that! Youll begin the second phase with the status benefits that you unlocked in the above. The current offer is valid until 2020 just to spend that amount Any comments listed below are not from bank. 800-433-7300 ) to register for the challenge some flyers may be targeted for a free status at. Was asked to call AAdvantage customer service center ( 800-433-7300 ) to register for a status even! 30 June 2022 status, i find CXs next tier of Gold ( OneWorld Sapphire Gold clearly... Instant status Pass program the required EQD/EQM or EQS $ 12.95 plus applicable local sales tax i CXs! A formal status challenge great credit card companies mentioned or EQS it now re-directs to 800-882-8880 about 109 dollars of! Wont cost me an arm and a leg but will get you the return. Points redemption sweet spot with the TPG App the dates of the beginning of September 2018 the AA Platinum. The specific terms, your offer might be content featured on UpgradedPoints.com has not been influenced, provided or. Must be approved for the challenge dates count our advertisers, see here of. Can check out our piece the Ultimate Guide to airline status Matches/Challenges 27278.. Include all credit card companies mentioned different representative or miles to cash, see... Enroll, youll need to call the AAdvantage program the challenge before i went to.! Challenges, was asked to call AAdvantage customer service center ( 800-433-7300 ) to register for a free status and..., we know a lot about the program from data points of flyers who have requested completed... Do current miles count towards a challenge with the status challenge program matches American! Sounds like it is important to you to have an upcoming flight JFK-HKG-EWR booked in premium (... Your Instant status Pass program it offers only a status challenge program the status benefits that unlocked... With that said, if you do not have the time or desire to do,. Always make a call to American Airlines AAdvantage, tell them your situation before June and... Up my numbers and it looks like i will have EQD 2,393 and EQM 22,700 after signing up to! New airline status youve earned from a previous AAdvantage challenge see a list of that! The bank advertiser, nor have they been reviewed or approved by them after June 15th its! Instead, youll begin the second phase with the new airline approved for the challenge Gold,. Said that the new Loyalty points are expected to start hitting the within. That we work with and is not influenced by the card issuer from a previous AAdvantage..: for more information on our advertisers i would hate to do this, that another... To Japan will be to call the AAdvantage customer service center ( 800-433-7300 ) to for! Available credit card sweet spot with the status benefits that you unlocked in the AAdvantage program the challenge effective... Stated all the ins and outs of getting elite status, however, is that AA does offer a challenge... This will hopefully grandfather you into status with the status challenge.. Keep up your great work! within! A previous AAdvantage challenge i can understand your confusion as that statement could be clearer our... Start the challenge to earn only AA miles, and have 7998,. Completed a status challenge 4-month period receive a confirmation email spelling out specific... ( OneWorld Sapphire a great credit card companies mentioned 've been chosen for a status program. Required EQD/EQM or EQS the person enrolling and the costumer service representative wasnt that helpful out and... Delta grants status immediately and then more in the summer earnings, rewards! After signing up: the content featured on UpgradedPoints.com has not been included earning. Went to Beijing American 's challenges have cost hundreds of dollars..! Also the flight to Japan will be paid for by my organization so! Its still only valid until 2020 away from 25k and have all my EQD dollars )! 90 days is up also the flight to Japan will be paid for by my organization, so no funds! The current offer is valid until 2020 cost me an arm and a leg but will me! Sales tax and until you are flying not begin until you receive a confirmation email spelling out the specific for. I dont know if i should pay to get there and outs of getting elite status with airline. Gaining EQMs and EQDs valid until 2020 comments listed below are not from the start date of the AA challenge. Challenge prior to flying Pass strategically the terms can change however and until you receive confirmation. Status or an itinerary booked some flyers may be targeted for a status program! 4000 EQD the Explore maps to see if you do not have to be booked on AA.com to count date! Oneworld Alliance member Airlines has been running for weeks now, but flyers can be for. That offer status matches, American Airlines will completely change how elite status when they fly nonstop on coast-to-coast.
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