American will reward fliers based on dollars, not miles

American Airlines is following other airlines by basing perks like free flights on how much passengers spend on tickets, not how many miles they fly. The change, which matches those at Delta Air Lines and United Airlines, starts with flights on Aug. 1 and rewards American's highest-paying passengers. Elite-status members of American's AAdvantage frequent-flier program will earn bonus miles for every dollar they spend. American signaled in October that changes were coming, but gave few details until Monday. AAdvantage has about 100m members, making it the biggest and the oldest major airline loyalty program. It featured easy math: Fly one mile, earn one mile. Today that simplicity is a quaint throwback. Airlines now compete fiercely for high-paying customers — they lavish elite travelers with upgraded cabins, lie-flat beds, better food and bigger frequent-flier rewards. American said most members will earn five miles for every dollar they spend on base fares and carrier-imposed fees. That multiple rises to seven, eight or 11 for elites — gold, platinum and executive-platinum members. Miles alone will no longer make you elite. Starting Jan. 1, customers will have to hit annual mileage marks and spending minimums, including at least $3,000 for gold and $12,000 for executive-platinum. A fourth level will be added just below executive platinum.<br/>