Do American Airlines miles expire? American Airlines AAdvantage is one of the largest airline loyalty programs globally. Understanding its mileage expiration policy is essential for members to protect their accumulated miles.
American Airlines AAdvantage Miles Expiration Policy
According to the AAdvantage program terms, AAdvantage miles expire if there is no qualifying activity on your account for 24 consecutive months. This means you need to either earn or redeem miles at least once every two years to keep your entire mileage balance active.
Note: For members under 21 years of age, miles do not expire. Once the member turns 21, the 24-month inactivity clock starts if there hasn't been recent activity.
How to Keep Your AAdvantage Miles From Expiring
Preventing your American Airlines AAdvantage miles from expiring requires simple qualifying activity within the 24-month timeframe. Here are common ways to maintain activity:
- Earn Miles:
- Fly with American Airlines, American Eagle, or oneworld® alliance partners and other partner airlines.
- Use an AAdvantage co-branded credit card (issued by Citi or Barclays in the US) for purchases.
- Earn miles through the AAdvantage eShopping portal, AAdvantage Dining, hotel stays, or car rentals with partners.
- Transfer points from hotel programs like Marriott Bonvoy (though transfer rates may vary). Bilt Rewards is also a transfer partner.
- Redeem Miles:
- Book award flights on American Airlines or partner airlines.
- Redeem miles for upgrades, Admirals Club memberships, hotel stays, car rentals, or charitable donations.
Any single qualifying earning or redemption activity will reset the 24-month expiration clock for your entire mileage balance.
Official Policy
For the most accurate and detailed information, always refer to the official AAdvantage program documentation:
- AAdvantage Terms and Conditions (Look for sections related to mileage expiration or account activity)
By ensuring you have at least one qualifying transaction every 24 months, you can easily keep your American Airlines AAdvantage miles active and ready for your next redemption.
Disclaimer: Always use credit responsibly. Program terms and conditions can change. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Verify details directly with American Airlines.