American Airlines no longer allows its AAdvantage loyalty
program members to accrue miles or points toward status on basic economy fares
for tickets bought on or after Dec. 17, according to the carrier.
Although many managed travel programs block these fares in
their online booking tools because they typically are nonrefundable or
changeable, at least without some fees, some small and midsize enterprises do
use these fares for business travel. Or, a business traveler might go outside
of their program because they think they found a better deal online, not
realizing their ticket comes with such limitations.
Garner Advisory founder Cory Garner noted
on LinkedIn that American treats Basic Economy customers differently
depending on which channel they book. "Specifically, direct bookers retain
a travel credit less applicable fees upon cancellation. Indirect bookers
don't," he wrote. "The typical airline under a full content
commitment or its [New Distribution Capability]-era equivalent wouldn't have
the latitude to try such things. Another proof point that American is operating
under few, if any, content commitments at all."
Delta Air Lines' Main Basic (formerly Basic Economy) also
does not offer the ability to earn loyalty points toward Medallion status with
its Delta SkyMiles program. United Airlines still awards Mileage Plus loyalty
program Premier Qualifying Points on the original Basic Economy fare, however
there are limitations regarding carry-on baggage.